Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7:30 PM

Our Opening Night film is a stylish musical biopic that explores the life of Brian Epstein, the visionary Jewish manager whose bold guidance propelled the Beatles to their meteoric rise and global stardom. Known as the “fifth Beatle,” Epstein ushered the scrappy Liverpool band from smoky backroom clubs to sold-out stadiums, but his brilliance was at times overshadowed by his own personal demons. Jacob Fortune-Lloyd (The Queen’s Gambit) delivers an incredibly raw and authentic portrayal of Epstein, a world-class disrupter long before anyone ever started using that terminology.  Featuring a wonderfully nostalgic soundtrack and the kaleidoscopic backdrop of the Swinging Sixties in London, Midas Man delivers a wonderfully bittersweet portrayal of the man who made sure the entire world came to know the Beatles!

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

Opening Night Party

Join us for our Opening Night Beatles-themed cocktail reception with light bites at 6:30pm before the screening. We’ll celebrate the music of the Beatles and launch our 32nd JFilm Festival in style.

Doors 6 PM / Movie 7 PM

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, Charles Grodin’s amazing life is beautifully honored in director James Freedman’s new documentary, Charles Grodin: Rebel with a Cause. Known for his sharp wit and incredible depth as an actor, Grodin is often remembered for his brilliant performances in The Heartbreak Kid and Midnight Run. A master in the art of deadpan, he delivered some of the most hilarious performances of his career during his numerous appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson and Late Night with David Letterman. But in an incredibly admirable twist, Grodin used his role as a CNBC talk show host to launch himself into the role of social activist. He became a fierce champion for prison reform and for the last twenty years of his life worked tirelessly to get several unfairly convicted women out of prison, many of whom were mothers of color with children at home. A true Pittsburgh hometown hero, his life story starts as a steady ripple of laughter that continues to rise only to surprise everyone and become a tidal wave of hope.

Official Selection: World Premiere – Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

Doors 1 PM / Movie 1:30 PM

Through poignant detail and compelling visuals, this documentary pays homage to Nobel laureate and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel, whose renowned literary influence and human rights advocacy work has ensured the Holocaust will never be forgotten, nor will humanity’s responsibility to honor the victims and survivors. Through archival interviews with Wiesel and members of his family, award-winning filmmaker Oren Rudavsky weaves the story of Wiesel’s life, starting with his childhood in Romania and moving to the atrocities and devastation he experienced in Nazi concentration camps, culminating in his transformation into a seminal voice for justice and morality. Paired with striking, imaginative visuals, audiences are given an unprecedented glimpse into Wiesel’s personal thoughts and reflections as Wiesel describes his struggles with faith, survivor’s guilt, and navigating his role as a prominent activist, which inspired him to write his 1958 memoir, Night. Exploring the lasting legacy of Wiesel’s fight against indifference, the film demonstrates his profound impact on education, historical preservation, and his family, as his grandson honors his heritage. With touching honesty and keen thoughtfulness, Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire offers a worthy tribute to an extraordinary individual, not only ensuring that Wiesel’s commitment to preservation be continued, but that his remarkable accomplishments, strength, empathy, and kindness be celebrated.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

POST-FILM Q&A

The film screening will be followed by a Q&A with Lindsay Malin, Assistant Director of Jewish Story Partners.

Doors 4 PM / Movie 4:30 PM

Auctioneer and modern art appraiser André lives, breathes, and sleeps his work. An expert in his field, he knows how to spot and close substantial deals with hefty payouts. That is, until he discovers a genuine Egon Schiele painting that was thought to be lost for nearly 70 years. Initially doubting its authenticity, André investigates the painting’s origins, learning that it was owned by a wealthy Austrian-Jewish collector before being looted by the Nazis. Presenting the chance to significantly boost his career, André races to close a deal on the painting, but faces professional and personal challenges along the way that compel him to reflect on his place in the fast-paced, cutthroat world of high art and finance.

Official Selection: Miami Jewish Film Festival, Toronto Jewish Film Festival, UK Jewish Film Festival

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

Winner of Israel’s Ophir Award for Best Picture and their official selection for the Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film, Come Closer is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and resilience. Lia Elalouf delivers a stunning performance in her feature film debut as Eden, a young woman who has been devastated by the sudden death of her younger brother, Nati. When Eden discovers that Nati had a secret girlfriend, she makes clandestine efforts to learn more and, in the process, embarks on a complicated journey of self-discovery. Inspired by director Tom Nesher’s personal tragedy—the death of a younger brother—the film received 13 Ophir Award Nominations and, in addition to the Best Picture win, earned Nesher a Best Director Award, Elalouf a Best Actress Award, and editor Shauly Melamed an award for Best Editing. Come Closer was an official selection at both the prestigious Palm Springs International Film Festival and the Tribeca Film Festival where it won the Tribeca Viewpoints Award.

Epilepsy Warning: This film may potentially trigger seizures for people with photosensitive epilepsy.

 
Official Selection: Tribeca, Palm Springs Film Festival, Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival
Winner: Israel Ophir Awards for Best Picture, Best Director (Tom Nesher), Best Actress (Lia Elalouf), and Best Editing (Shauly Melamed) & Tribeca Viewpoints Award

Doors 1 PM / Movie 1:30 PM

Soul of a Nation is an inspiring and eye-opening film that delves into Israel's most perilous chapter in recent history - a period defined by profound internal divisions, political unrest, and external threats that pushed the nation to the brink of collapse. Through candid interviews with key political leaders, including former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Ehud Olmert, Knesset Member Simcha Rothman, former Supreme Court President Dorit Beinisch, former Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren, and former Foreign Ministers Tzipi Livni and Shlomo Ben Ami, the film takes you inside Israeli society through the perspectives of its most influential voices. Drawing on insights from Nobel laureates, Muslim leaders, peace activists, and other prominent figures, Soul of a Nation dismantles preconceived notions about one of the world's most scrutinized countries, delivering an unfiltered look at the nation, its people, and the monumental challenges that will shape the lives of millions for generations to come.

Official Selection: Miami Jewish Film Festival, Boca International Jewish Film Festival

“Even during dark times of polarization, Soul of a Nation shows the importance of unity, even when it might seem impossible.” - Danielle Solzman – Solzy at the Movies

Doors 3:30 PM / Movie 4 PM

Never Alone tells the gripping story of Jewish refugees seeking safety in Finland during WWII. As Nazi influence grows, the Finnish-Jewish businessman Abraham Stiller (Ville Virtanen, Netflix's Bordertown) risks everything to protect the refugee community. This powerful film showcases courage, resilience, and the fight for hope amidst overwhelming adversity. Based on actual events during World War II, celebrated director Klaus Härö (The Fencer, My Sailor, My Love) shines a light on the plight of Jewish refugees seeking sanctuary in Finland and the unwavering hero who risked everything to protect them.

Content Warning: This film contains material that may be difficult for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

Supported in part by the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh

FILM SCHMOOZE

Following the film, join us for a Film Schmooze led by Dr. Jonathan Zisook. Film Schmooze is a casual post-film discussion sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh Jewish Studies Program.

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

Hoping to rebuild family ties with his estranged father and brothers, Dario travels from the US to his hometown in Argentina to attend his sister Daniela’s wedding and his niece’s Bat Mitzvah. As he and his three siblings make their way home, their father has a sudden stroke and passes away. Facing the decision as to whether they should move forward with the celebrations during the period of mourning, they find themselves thrust right back into the family dramas of old. As this group of quirky but often familiar characters painstakingly try to find a way past the hurts and misunderstandings of the past, a loving family with all its sibling rivalries, shortcomings, and strengths is joyfully revealed. Mazel Tov is an Argentinian comedy that delightfully reminds us that nothing ever goes quite as planned.

Official Selection: Boca International Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

Antoine, a passionate and celebrated filmmaker, returns to his birthplace of Algiers accompanied by his young son. There to present his new film, an account of his mid-20th century childhood in Algeria during the country’s civil war, he and his son explore the city igniting a flood of nostalgia. Having emigrated to France with his family many years earlier, he reflects on his Sephardic upbringing as a child in a multicultural neighborhood of Jews, Muslims, and Christians. This semi-autobiographical dramedy finds a father and son bonding over tales of school, old friends, and an early fascination with cinema. As it comes to life on the streets of Algiers, Alexandre Arcady’s vibrant memoir, The Blond Boy from the Casbah, evokes the look and feel of a bygone era.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

As a successor in a historied Ashkenazi rabbinic dynasty, Amichai Lau-Lavie’s life was paved with expectations from birth. However, conflicted by the rules of his Orthodox Jewish upbringing and a desire to live his life truthfully and authentically, Amichai chose to forge his own path and break new ground in the process. A Tribeca Best Documentary nominee, Sabbath Queen follows Amichai’s journey through two decades of his life as he challenges the customs of the Orthodox Jewish faith and navigates his position as a trailblazing spiritual leader. From establishing a first of its kind inclusive congregation, Lab/Shul, to developing his drag queen persona and being a queer father, this film explores every aspect of Amichai’s life with sincerity and intimacy. Through archival material, candid interviews, and thought-provoking commentary, Sabbath Queen explores the complex struggle between tradition and modernity, and one man’s lifelong attempt to find a bridge between them.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

Q&A PANELISTS

The film screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Sandi DuBowski and special guest Kohenet Keshira haLev Fife.

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

What do you do when the cards aren’t in your favor? Change the game. When high school teacher Barry Bernstein loses funding for the annual school musical, he enlists the help of his colleague Jonah to cheat in an underground card game run by the Hasidic Jewish community. However, as the plan goes awry and secrets of Jonah’s past are revealed, the pair find themselves getting more than they bargained for. A wild ride from start to finish, Yaniv unpacks Jewish identity, male friendship, and public education through the lens of an absurd, madcap comedy.

Official Selection: Miami Jewish Film Festival, UK Jewish Film Festival

Q&A PANELISTS

The film screening will be followed by a Q&A with director/co-writer Amnon Carmi and actor/writer Ben Ducoff.

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

In June of 1960, despite the obstacles of sweltering summer heat and the violence of American Nazi Party counter-protestors, a contingent of Black students from Howard University found themselves joined by white suburbanites, many of whom were Jewish to protest the segregated Glen Echo Amusement Park in Maryland. Emmy-award winning director Ilana Trachtman reveals the story behind this unlikely alliance which was the first organized interracial civil rights protest in US history. Featuring gripping historical footage and vivid firsthand testimonials her film highlights a little-known moment in US history. A fierce and brave protest that found union bosses collaborating with student leaders and picketers developing unexpected friendships would ultimately give birth to some of the future giants of the Civil Rights Movement. With narration by Jeffrey Wright and Mandy Patinkin, Ain’t No Back to a Merry-Go-Round serves as a timely reminder of how far we’ve come and how far we still may have to go.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Boston Jewish Film Festival, San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

Winner – Building Bridges Award – Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

“With its rich historical narrative and compelling delivery, this documentary is a must-watch that offers valuable lessons and lasting inspiration for all.” - Chris Jones, Overly Honest Reviews

FILM SCHMOOZE

Following the film, join us for a Film Schmooze led by Dr. Rachel Kranson. Film Schmooze is a casual post-film discussion sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh Jewish Studies Program.

Doors 6:30 PM / Movie 7 PM

In the summer of 1923, amid his fight against tuberculosis, writer Franz Kafka travels to the seaside resort Graal-Müritz to improve his living conditions—and leaves with an understanding of the glory of life. After meeting Dora Diamant, a dancer who works at the resort, Kafka—who struggles with his overbearing family and often keeps to himself—finds a connection he’s never known. As he and Dora grow closer and develop an understanding of one another, Kafka is inspired to live the remainder of his life to the fullest. Despite the health complications, Kafka travels to Berlin to be with Dora, where they experience a year together full of joy and love as well as hardship. Based on the true story of the last year of Franz Kafka’s life, this deeply touching film explores the power of love and its ability to bring light into our lives, even in the darkest of times.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Boca International Jewish Film Festival

Doors 2:45 PM / Movie 3:15 PM

Like a modern-day Romeo, Moti (Amit Rahav from Netflix’s Unorthodox) falls head over heels for his sister’s friend Nechama, but isn’t allowed to date the charming, beautiful young woman because she comes from a Mizrahi (Middle Eastern) family, not an Ashkenazi (European) family like his own. To the great despair of both his parents and an exasperated matchmaker, he goes to comical lengths to pursue his one true love. Featuring an award-winning cast, this Israeli box office sensation delivers a healthy dose of laughter in a lighthearted tale of love and tolerance.

Winner: Audience Award – 2023 Miami Jewish Film Festival

“The take-home in this polished box office hit is that the ultra-Orthodox may take their matchmaking seriously, but love is love, especially in a Haredi rom-com.” – Jessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel

Doors 5 PM / Movie 5:30 PM

Our Closing Day double feature concludes with, Matchmaking 2, Israel’s biggest box office hit of the past year. This charming sequel finds Baruch at age 28, considered “over the hill” in the ultra-Orthodox world, desperately hoping to find his match. Soon he finds himself head over heels in love with Shira, the daughter of tough Matchmaker Malki, who’s been trying to find his perfect pairing. Meanwhile, Malki attempts to match Baruch with Ruth, a kind baker with a heart full of hope. As Malki and Baruch both begin to meddle, in an effort to achieve their preferred outcomes, hilarity and potential heartbreak ensue. Matchmaking 2 features a wonderful ensemble cast including Maor Schwietzer as Baruch, Irit Kaplan as Malki, Omer Nudelman, in her feature film debut, as Malki’s daughter, Shira, and Niv Sultan, Schwietzer’s real-life wife as Ruth. Together they deliver wonderful performances that allow this romantic comedy to offer a dash of mischief, a pinch of mayhem, and a healthy dose of love, laughter and heartfelt tears.

Official Selection: Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Miami Jewish Film Festival

“Matchmaking 2 is as hysterical as the original.” - Danielle Solzman – Solzy at the Movies

Doors 7 PM / Movie 8 PM

$10 Theater Seating

The Princess Bride

A bedridden boy's grandfather reads him the story of a farmboy-turned-pirate who encounters numerous obstacles, enemies and allies in his quest to be reunited with his true love. -IMDb

1 hour 38 minutes

Doors 7 PM / Movie 8 PM

$10 Tickets

Star Wars The Empire Strikes Back

The Rebels scatter after the Empire attacks their base on the ice planet Hoth. Han Solo and Princess Leia are pursued by Imperials, while Luke trains with Jedi Master Yoda. But when Luke battles Darth Vader, he learns the shocking truth of his past.

2 hours 4 minutes 

*1997 re-release version

Doors / Brunch 10 AM

Movie 11 AM

$38 Theater Seating

Mother's Day Brunch, Buds, and Mamma Mia!

Included in the ticket price is a special treat.  Our neighbor Roots to Petals will be on-site with their Bud Vase Bar - and your ticket price includes building a beautiful, modern bud vase arrangement with stunning local flowers from their flower bar.  

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Brunch includes:

Assorted donuts and pastries from Oakmont Bakery.

The bar will be open and additional snacks and drinks will be for sale throughout the event.

Cinebrunch tickets must be purchased in advance by 6PM, Friday, May 9th.

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Mamma Mia!
Donna, an independent hotelier, is preparing for her daughter's wedding with the help of two old friends. Meanwhile Sophie, the spirited bride, has a plan. She invites three men from her mother's past in hope of meeting her real father. -IMDb

1 hour 48 minutes

Doors 7 PM / Movie 8 PM

$10 Tickets

Raiders of the Lost Ark

In 1936, archaeologists and adventurers of the U.S. government hired Indiana Jones to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis could obtain its extraordinary powers. -IMDb

1 hour 55 minutes

Doors 1 PM / Movie 2 PM

$20 Theater Seating

Join film geeks David Newell "aka Mr. McFeely from Mister Rogers Neighborhood" and Chad Hunter from the Pittsburgh Silent Film Society & Festival for an afternoon of classic movies from comedy legends Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy. The program will include The Music Box (1932), which was the very first film to win an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film, and was also named to the National Film Registry by the Librarian of Congress in 1996. Also being shown is their short film Blotto (1937 version). 

In 2015, Newell and Hunter co-founded the Pittsburgh Chapter of Sons of the Desert, the International organization devoted to the lives and films of comedians Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy, which takes its name from a fictional lodge that Laurel and Hardy belonged to in the 1933 film "Sons of the Desert."

David Newell is an American television actor known for his portrayal of Mr. McFeely, the delivery man on "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood." He also worked in the public relations department of Fred Rogers Productions. His character's most famous catchphrase was "Speedy Delivery!" He toured the country until he retired in 2015, promoting "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" as Mr. McFeely, and is still an active ambassador for the beloved television program.  

Chad Hunter is director of the Pittsburgh Silent Film Society & Festival. He previously worked as a film archivist at institutions such as George Eastman Museum in Rochester, NY; Appalshop in eastern Kentucky; and musician Peter Gabriel’s human rights organization WITNESS in New York City. He co-founded Home Movie Day and the Center for Home Movies in 2003, and Silent Movie Day in 2020.  

Doors 7 PM / Movie 8 PM

$10 Theater Seating

Labyrinth

Teenage Sarah journeys through a maze to save her baby brother from the Goblin King. -IMDb

1 hour 41 minutes

Doors 7 PM / Movie 8 PM

$10 Ticket - Pasta dinner not included

$14 Pasta Dinner Add-On (includes pasta, meatballs, and bread) – Must be purchased in addition to movie ticket

Goodfellas

The story of Henry Hill and his life in the mafia, covering his relationship with his wife Karen and his mob partners Jimmy Conway and Tommy DeVito. -IMDb

2 hours 25 minutes