This documentary film follows four years in the life of Muhammad “Misha” Alsheikh, a gifted teenage pianist from Ramallah, born to a Palestinian father and a Russian mother. Every piano lesson with his teacher Emma, a Jewish-Israeli who also immigrated from Russia and now lives in Jerusalem, requires a three-hour journey through checkpoints. Torn between his father’s wish for him to become a doctor and his own dream of being a professional pianist, Misha navigates auditions, obstacles, and the weight of borders. More than a portrait of musical talent, the film is a heartfelt story of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of happiness.

Director: Avida Livny
Producers: Eitan Evan (Evanstone Films Ltd), Udi Zamberg (T.H. Productions Ltd)
Editor: Nili Feller
Cinematographer: Nayef Hamud
Sound Editing & Mix: Aviv Aldema
Protagonist: Mohammad Alsheikh
Broadcaster: Yes Docu
Production Date: 2020
Language: Arabic, Russian, English