THREE very different films will be shown in Otley over the next few weeks.

Otley Film Society will begin the screenings at the Courthouse with Jeremy Hardy vs The Israeli Army on Wednesday, November 27.

The 2003 documentary shows the late comedian - and lifelong campaigner for Palestine - taking part in a visit, as part of a delegation, to the occupied territories.

The trip happened after Hardy had been approached by the Palestinian director, Leila Sansour, to front a film about the International Solidarity Movement - anti-occupation activists operating in the West Bank and Gaza.

He was invited to go to Bethlehem and assured by the director that, because the ISM is a non-violent movement, he would be in no danger.

A military offensive by the Israeli government while he was en route, however, meant that the prediction turned out to not exactly be accurate.

The documentary, which starts at 7.45pm, will be followed by a short documentary, Health Under Occupation, made by MAP (Medical Aid For Palestinians).

There will be also be stalls before the screening, selling Palestinian produce.

Proceeds from the evening will go to Open Bethlehem, a campaign that is promoting the city - famous for being the birthplace of Jesus Christ - as a ‘doorway for global engagement’ in the search for a lasting peace settlement.

Tickets cost £5 are available from the Otley Courthouse box office - visit www.otleycourthouse.org.uk or call (01943) 467466.

On Thursday, November 28 the film society will present French film The Guardians (Les Gardiennes) - an ‘affecting human drama of love, loss, and resilience’ which unfolds against the backdrop of the First World War.

The story shows the women of the Paridier farm, managed by matriarch Hortense (Nathalie Baye,) grappling with the workload while the men are off fighting at the front.

Hortense reluctantly brings on an outsider, Francine (Iris Bry), to help her daughter Solange (Laura Smet).

New tools allow the women to triumph over the land and newfound independence is acquired, but emotions are stirred - especially when the men return from the front on short leaves.

Acclaimed filmmaker Xavier Beauvois (Of Gods and Men) showcases the beauty of the French countryside while portraying the drama that plays out as the war progresses. The film starts at 7.45pm and tickets will be available on the door for £5.

Finally, on Sunday, December 1 the hit musical drama Bohemian Rhapsody will bring the stadium-filling sounds of Queen to the Courthouse.

Described as a ‘foot-stomping celebration’ of the band and lead singer Freddie Mercury, the film traces their meteoric rise and features some of their best-loved songs.

Remi Malek won an Oscar and a BAFTA for his performance as the singer. The film, which starts at 7.30pm, is being shown as a fundraiser for NAT, the National Aids Trust.

Tickets cost £5 and are available from the Courthouse box office.