Miami Jewish Film Festival - Reaffirms Its Mission To Foster Empathy And Understanding Through Cinema

Additionally, an online component will make over 80 films available for streaming to audiences across Florida and the United States.

The Festival’s opening night kicks off with the world premiere of Soul of a Nation, directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz. This inspiring and eye-opening film delves into one of Israel’s most turbulent chapters, chronicling the journey from crisis and division to unity and resilience following the October 7th tragedy.

Featuring exclusive insights from influential leaders and a heartfelt vision of hope, the premiere will include an introduction by Jonathan Jakubowicz and Producer Claudine Jakubowicz, followed by a post-screening Q&A. The Festival’s closing night will feature the premiere of Matchmaking 2, the latest by renowned Israeli Filmmaker Erez Tadmor. This sequel to the beloved 2022 romantic drama is Israel’s biggest box office hit of the year, offering an endlessly witty and sweetly romantic take on a modern Romeo-and-Juliet tale starring some of Israel’s most dazzling young talents.

This year’s festival will welcome 30 international guests, including Israeli superstar Michael Aloni (Shtisel) for the premiere of the gripping drama The Stronghold; legendary Florida-based Singer-Songwriter Janis Ian for the premiere of Janis Ian: Breaking Silence; Director Tom Nesher and Producer Anthony Bregman for the premiere of Come Closer, Israel’s official entry for the Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film; Hollywood actress Lisa Brenner (The Patriot) for the world premiere of her new film One Big Happy Family; Director Sandi Dubowski and film subject Amichai Lau-Lavie for the Award-Winning Sabbath Queen, presented under the stars at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden; and the comedy duo Eli Batalion and Jamie Elman (YidLife Crisis) for the world premiere of their latest film, Swedishkayt: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm.

In light of recent tragic events in Israel and the rise of Antisemitism worldwide, the Miami Jewish Film Festival reaffirms its mission to foster empathy and understanding through cinema, with a spotlight on Israel’s vital role in the Jewish narrative. This year, the Festival proudly presents the world’s largest Israeli film program, featuring more than 30 premieres.

“Made in Miami” movies this year, featuring several films receiving their world premieres. Among them is Miami Schmatta, a compelling exploration of the vibrant immigrant legacy that shaped the American garment industry, set against the colorful backdrop of Miami. Also premiering are Miami-based filmmakers Wendy Sach’s October H8te, a timely film about Antisemitism on college campuses following the October 7th tragedy, as well as Leslie Benitah’s Milk & Honey, Blood & Tears, a powerful documentary chronicling the resilience and recovery of Kibbutz Be'eri following the devastating October 7th attack. The film poignantly contrasts the kibbutz’s peaceful past with the harsh realities of survival and healing.

MJFF’s Headliners program features standout selections and award-winning films from festivals worldwide.

Tickets for the festival’s in-theater and virtual events go on sale and sales continue throughout the festival. In addition to individual tickets ($11-$54), the festival offers All-Access Theater Badges ($325) providing entry to all in-theater events and All-Access Theater Badges ($325) providing entry to all in-theater events and All-Access Virtual Passes ($249) giving access to all films streaming in the festival’s digital screening room.

Full details and tickets to the festival can be found at: www.miamijewishfilmfestival.org

Photo credit: Courtesy of United King Films