The Palestine Exception Poster

The Palestine Exception 2026

70 min📅 2026-01-28

In *The Palestine Exception (2026)*, director Jan Haaken shines a light on the escalating tensions on college campuses as students and faculty push back against decades of unspoken rules in academia.

Director: Jan Haaken

Cast

Ellen Schrecker
Jennifer Gaboury
Judith Butler
Judith Butler
Premilla Nadasen
Saree Makdisi
Sophie Smith
Ted Khoury

Frequently Asked Questions

What is *The Palestine Exception (2026)* about?

This documentary follows students and professors as they challenge long-standing taboos in academia by advocating for divestment from companies tied to Israel's war in Gaza. It captures the clash between activism and institutional backlash, offering a front-row seat to a pivotal moment in higher education.

Who directed *The Palestine Exception*?

The film is directed by Jan Haaken, an acclaimed filmmaker known for her documentaries that blend social issues with personal narratives.

Who stars in *The Palestine Exception*?

The documentary features Ellen Schrecker, Jennifer Gaboury, Judith Butler, Premilla Nadasen, and Saree Makdisi.

Is *The Palestine Exception (2026)* worth watching?

For viewers interested in contemporary social movements and academic freedom, this film offers a compelling and timely perspective. While unrated, its focus on a critical issue makes it a must-watch for those who value documentary storytelling and real-world impact.

How long is *The Palestine Exception*?

The film runs for 70 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About The Palestine Exception (2026) — How campus protests are rewriting academic norms

In *The Palestine Exception (2026)*, director Jan Haaken shines a light on the escalating tensions on college campuses as students and faculty push back against decades of unspoken rules in academia.

The documentary captures the raw energy of 2023 and 2024 protests, where calls for ceasefire and divestment from companies linked to Israel's war in Gaza collided with institutional crackdowns. Blending intimate interviews with professors and activists, Haaken crafts a timely exploration of free speech, political courage, and the cost of challenging the status quo. With a tone both urgent and reflective, the film reveals how a new wave of censorship—dubbed the "new McCarthyism"—is reshaping higher education.