‘Jewish International Film Festival’: A celebration of Jewish Culture

The highly anticipated Jewish International Film Festival (JIFF) returns to Sydney with a program of 41 feature-length films, two television shows, and a short film program from 17 countries including Israel, France, Germany, Portugal the United States and Australia.

“This year’s JIFF is a vibrant celebration of Jewish voices, and our 2024 program showcases stars and change makers, offering audiences a rich tapestry of stories that explore the depth and diversity of Jewish life,” enthused Artistic Director Eddie Tamir.

“We are excited to present films that span thousands of years of history and culture, reflecting on both the ancient traditions that have shaped our world and the contemporary challenges we face today.”

He said this film festival along with all the other film festivals globally are still in recovery mode since Covid, but admissions to this festival should be on the increase.

“With the sparkling line-up we have in this year’s festival we would expect to reach pre-Covid admissions. We strive to entertain, stimulate and inform audiences in the Jewish community and the wider, general film going community with quality Australian premieres.”

There’s an exceptional line-up of films, comedies for light entertainment, award winning premiere dramas and documentaries.

“There are many holocaust films screening this year at the festival. Filmmakers continue to choose this period of history in which to set stories that resonate with contemporary imperatives and realities.”

The JIFF should be enjoyed by all who attend, but is there a more significant underlying purpose for bringing this film festival to the screen?

“The 50+ national and ethnic Film festivals screening in Australia feed into the multicultural celebration that is Australia. Each festival plays a part in creating a home for its core audience and fostering understanding beyond each specific culture. JIFF is proud to be part of that.

“We aim to present a Jewish perspective on the world that transcends cliché and presents the full kaleidoscope of authentic Jewish characters and stories,” explained Tamir.

When asked what he hopes non-Jewish audiences should absorb about Jewish culture from attending screenings at this film festival Tamir was quick to respond.

“That it is an eclectic, diverse culture with people from all over the world. That it is a culture true to the joke that when there are 2 Jews there are 3 opinions. A culture that continually tries to make sense of this complex world and attempts to make it a better place.”

Tamir concluded by saying that he has two simple aspirations for the JIFF leading into the future.

“The continued focus on quality Australian premieres and growth beyond the core Jewish audience.”

TAMIR’S HOT PICKS

A REAL PAIN – The opening night movie is described as a masterpiece and a knockout. Two mismatched Jewish cousins reunite for a tour through Poland to honour their beloved grandmother. Poignant and funny. Stars Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin.

THE BRUTALIST – The story of Laszlo Toth, a Hungarian-born Jewish architect who survived the Holocaust and at the end of World War II emigrated to the United States with his wife. Would the American dream become a reality? Stars Adrien Brody and Guy Pierce. (Screens December 1)

KAFKA TV SERIES – The story of Franz Kafka, regarded as the greatest and most famous writer of the Twentieth Century. This 6 episode acclaimed series explores his difficult relationship with his authoritarian father and his various love affairs. Told from the perspective of those who knew him best.

October 28 – December 4

Ritz Randwick Cinemas & Roseville Cinemas.

www.jiff.com.au