Our Story

For those who are just joining us--

Corner Store is the true story of Yousef Elhaj--beloved shop owner, Palestinian immigrant, and long distance father.  Ten years ago during the second Intifada, Yousef left his wife and children in Bethlehem to find work and start a new life for them in America.  For the past decade he has worked day and night to build a small business, save money, and remain connected from afar, while waiting to become a legal citizen--the primary obstacle keeping his family apart.  Finally, he receives permission to return to his fractured homeland, his wife, and his now grown children.  The film follows his long-awaited journey and his reunion with his family and his country.  But a lot has changed, and Yousef must confront the new realities and decide if a return to America is still really the right path to take.  Maybe staying in Palestine is the best option after all.  Stay or go?  It is an age-old choice that will decide their future, and one they ultimately make together. 

After months and months of hard work, we are finally ready to launch Corner Store into the world.  Our festival run begins with three opening weekend screenings at the Starz Denver Film Festival.  And that's just the beginning of the circuit.