Jewish International Film Festival 2017

The Jewish International Film Festival (JIFF) returns to Melbourne — 26 years and counting! JIFF is proudly building on its history and culture with the extensive range of Israeli- and Jewish-themed films.

This year’s lineup features 65 different films from twenty-six countries. Films from Israel, Australia, Argentina, Denmark, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Poland, Spain, UK and USA will all be shown at Classic Cinemas in Elsternwick and Cinema Lido in Hawthorn. The festival also includes director Q&As, one-on-one Advisory Sessions and post-film discussions. There is even a pop-up bakery, a Kugel-off contest and craft activities for the kids.

Reaching deep into Jewish culture and history, JIFF provides amusement for people of Jewish descent and Melbourne film lovers alike. From comedy to tragedy, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from.

Award-winning films being presented include The Wedding Plan, The Women’s Balcony, In Between, Keep the Change, Scaffolding and 1945. 30 of the 65 films have been nominated for Ophir awards, considered to be the Israeli equivalent of the Academy Awards.

Opening night gave us the film Menashe, directed by Joshua Weinstein. This film follows the story of a widowed man trying to maintain a relationship with his son. Set in New York City’s Hasidic community, we see the struggles of accepting your faith versus challenging it. The film is spoken in Yiddish language with English subtitles. Filled with laughs and tears, this movie was inspiring and stirring. Weinstein was awarded the Prix du Jury at the Deauville American Film Festival for Menashe and has been nominated for many more awards.

Gracing Australian screens this year is a truly sensational lineup; there are so many films to see. JIFF is culturally rich, whether you are Jewish or not, you are sure to be accommodated for.

Jewish International Film Festival 2017 
Till Saturday, 22 November 2017
jiff.com.au