Diversity, Heart & Soul at Sydney’s Jewish International Film Festival 2025

Experience the power of storytelling at this year’s Jewish International Film Festival, which showcases diverse perspectives, thought-provoking themes and captivating narratives from around the world.

The curated program consists of 50 of the finest dramas, comedies and documentaries, so there should be a film that resonates with all moviegoer’s tastes and preferences.

Festival Executive Director Lindy Tamir, who is excited for moviegoers to attend the film festival, explained that the popularity of this cinematic celebration is increasing each year.

“We have run JIFF nationally for 13 years and yes, the festival’s popularity is increasing each year due to the preview screenings of major art films that appeal further than the JIFF audience that we are able to secure each year. This year we have the advance screenings on Sony’s film Eleanor the Great which is Scarlett Johansson’s directorial debut and stars June Squibb.”

The opening night movie, Bad Shabbos is a dark comedy about a disastrous Shabbat dinner where an accidental death spirals into chaos. David’s Jewish Family meets his Catholic fiancée’s parents and tensions arise as they try to cover up the body. Fast paced hilarity ensues with quirky characters, and themes explored include family, faith and dysfunction. Kyra Sedgwick and Australian Ashley Zukerman star in this exceptionally funny film.

Jewish International Film Festival 2025’s program highlights

Avenue of the Giants – From the USA comes this heartfelt story about the friendship between a teenager and a Holocaust survivor. The now 74-year-old has not spoken to his wife and children about his memories of the Holocaust. To help teenager Abbey overcome a trauma, Heller breaks his silence and tells the young woman about his life. Directed by Finn Taylor and stars Stephen Lang.

The Eichmann Trial – this documentary from the USA is about the Adolf Eichmann trial, where he faced justice for his role in the Holocaust. Using real footage and testimonies, it shows the trial’s impact on history and how it changed the world’s understanding of the atrocities. Directed by Elliot Levitt.

Once Upon My Mother – This beautiful film from France is the heart-warming true story about a mother’s love and determination for her son born with clubfoot. Despite doctor’s doubts she fights for him to walk and live normally, taking audiences on an emotional journey of love and resilience. Directed by Ken Scott and stars Leila Bekhti.

Pink Lady – This co-production between Israel and Italy is a complex and very moving story. A woman’s life is turned upside down when her husband’s secret affair leads to blackmail. She’s forced to confront her own desires and question everything, leading to a journey of self-discovery. Directed by Nir Bergman and stars Nur Fibak.

This film festival should appeal to all audiences, Jewish and non-Jewish and especially to the cinephile community who enjoy high rated art house cinema. People in the general community who would also like a deeper understanding of Jewish story and perspective should also attend.

Jewish International Film Festival is on from Oct 20 – Nov 26, at Ritz Randwick & Roseville Cinemas.