Page 1 a MESSAGE from the CHAIR JFILM SPONSORS

Page 1 A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR JFILM SPONSORS

Welcome to the 28th annual our history continues. As we continue to grow, I PREMIUM JFilm Festival in Pittsburgh! hope you will continue to enjoy our breadth of My name is Alison Shapiro, programming in addition to JFilm: ReelAbilities, Film Pittsburgh’s Board of Pittsburgh Shorts, Three Rivers Film Festival, Directors Chair. First and Robinson International Short Film Competition foremost, thank you for and Teen Screen. taking the time to look into what we have to say, and Thank you for staying with us and thank you for dive into the programing helping us build our future. we’re bringing to you virtually this year. It’s been challenging to keep up with our typical routines and I’m so glad you’re able to stay with us now more than ever.

The JFilm Festival has been and continues to be a Alison Shapiro keystone of our organization and within the film Board of Directors, Chair community here in Pittsburgh. I’m so proud of Film Pittsburgh PATRONS the tireless work our staff undertakes to ensure Eric Cooper & Naomi Siegel Daryl Hutson & Pat Navarro Chuck & Mindy Spitz BOARD/STAFF/COMMITTEE/PREVIEWERS Nancy Bernstein & Robert Schoen Robert Levin & Kerry Bron Marilyn & Robert Swedarsky Marian Finegold Philip & Iris Samson Marc & Lisa Tannenbaum

Board of Directors Staff JFilm Committee Alison Shapiro, Chair Drew Checkelsky Marilyn Asimow Mara Hellman Jim Denova Caroline Collins Mimi Botkin Linda Joshowitz PARTNERS Elaine Gelb Judy Kaplan Chana Brody Elaine Miller David Glickman Jenna Potts Judith Ehrenwerth Batia Rascoe Norton Gusky Lori Sisson Sheila Fineberg Dina Rayzberg Daryl Hutson Paul Sloop Marian Finegold Dodie Roskies Carol Stewart James Kathryn Spitz Cohan Linda Geistman Iris Samson Minette Seate Susan Gluckman Marilyn Swedarsky Rebecca Shapiro Robert Halden Nancy Tuckfelt Marc L. Tannenbaum Shoshana Halden Deb Wein

Film Previewers Marilyn Asimow Robert Halden Linda Joshowitz Mimi Botkin Shoshana Halden Dina Rayzberg MEDIA Linda Geistman Mara Hellman Iris Samson Norton Gusky Amy Jacobson Marilyn Swedarsky

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 3 TICKETS / VIEWING / VOTING / HELP! TICKETS / VIEWING / VOTING / HELP!

Q&As / PANELS / FILM CONTENT / RATINGS HELP! SINGLE TICKETS PASSES SCHMOOZE We have made every effort to [email protected] Tickets are General Admission: $15 All Festival Pass ($291 value) Many films include recorded list adult content after the film If you are having technical description. Independent films Festival Friend: $100 ($15 ticket Includes Opening Night available at Q&As and/or panel discussions difficulties, please reach out. + $85 charitable contribution) • $118 Early Bird – by April 16 with members of the filmmaking are not rated and may contain While we can’t improve your • $136 Regular Price teams and local guests. Please disturbing language or images. internet connection, we’ve Opening Night: $36 FilmPittsburgh.org look for these special additions All content is subject to change. mastered this virtual platform Festival Friend: $136 ($36 ticket Six Pack ($90 value) on the Eventive platform where and are standing by to help you + $100 charitable contribution) General Admission only; Does you watch the film. connect so you don’t miss any not include Opening Night of these great films! • $60 Early Bird – by April 16 Additionally, there will be • $75 Regular Price opportunities for you to discuss The fastest way to reach us is by the films with fellow audience email: [email protected] members through our Film Or, call us at 412-426-FILM (3456). Schmooze program sponsored We are working remotely, but if by University of Pittsburgh, WHERE AND WHEN CAN I you leave a voicemail message, Jewish Studies Program. More WATCH? OPENING NIGHT someone will return your call as information about these oppor- quickly as possible, but definite- Film distributors dictate where tunities are listed on the indi- ly within 12 hours. and when our selected films can April 22, 7pm vidual film pages of this guide be streamed. All films are avail- (Followed by a Zoom After-Party with the Film Pittsburgh staff!) and on our website. able for viewing in our region of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and All other films are available for viewing Ohio. Two films are available in the United States and one is available worldwide. Please look April 23 – May 2 for this information on the film’s in PA, WV, and OH page in the program guide or on the website. unless otherwise noted Our opening night film, Sublet, is the only film available for viewing on Thursday, April 22, EVENTIVE PLATFORM VOTING FOR AUDIENCE followed by a Zoom after-party If you joined us for the Fall AWARDS hosted by the Film Pittsburgh Festival, your Eventive account After the film credits, you will be staff. (We miss you!) Sublet will is already active! You must use taken back to the “Watch Now” also be available for the rest the same email address to page where you will see the op- of the festival at the opening access your existing account. portunity to rate the film. Please night price as a fundraiser for From this platform, you will vote! At the end of the festival, Film Pittsburgh. All of the other watch films, Q&As, and vote! If we will announce the Audience films (except for Breaking Bread) you’re new to this platform, you Award for your favorite narrative are available for viewing begin- will receive an email after your and documentary films. ning April 23 through May 2. ticket purchase telling you how After clicking “Watch Now,” you to easily activate your account. will have 48 hours to complete watching your film.

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 5 JFilm Festival 2021 Opening Night / Centerpiece Film SMILE-TO-MOUTH FINGER-TO-SCREEN FACE-TO-FEAR

PGH-TO-HNL Opening Night Centerpiece Film Sublet Howie Mandel: Director: Eytan Fox 2020, Israel/USA, 87 minutes But, Enough About Me Director: Barry Avrich English and Hebrew with subtitles 2020, Canada, 89 minutes POWER-TO-VOICE Sublet, from award-winning director Eytan Fox (Walk on English Water, Yossi & Jagger), is a subtle tale of love, loss, and hope. When Michael, a middle-aged, gay travel writer arrives at Howie Mandel: But, Enough About Me is so much more than the apartment he has sublet in Tel Aviv he meets the tenant, a documentary about the legendary comedic genius. The Tomer, and soon learns the young, charismatic filmmaker film reveals his struggles with OCD and ADHD and childhood has failed to plan for his arrival. Tel Aviv offers the perfect experiences that contributed to his mental health issues. backdrop and buzzing energy for a story that finds these two Despite the challenges, we learn that Mandel, raised in a IDEA-TO-LIFE Jewish family in Toronto, used practical jokes and comedy characters overcoming their age and personality gap to help one another find a way forward. Featuring a smart, sensitive to navigate his way through life. His comedic efforts got him script and wonderful performances by John Benjamin Hickey expelled from high school but contributed to his unique and newcomer Niv Nissim, Sublet delivers an emotionally approach as a door-to-door salesman and eventually led him fulfilling experience. (Adult content: nudity, sex, casual to become a one-of-a-kind standup comedian. With the sup- drug use) port of his fearless best friend and wife, he took his talents HEAD-TO-HEART to Los Angeles and, well, the rest is history. Today, Mandel is Official Selection – Tribeca Film Festival a delightful and ubiquitous presence across the entertain- Winner – Audience Award – Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival ment spectrum and his story is touching, inspirational, and, of course, quite funny. Sublet “serves as a visually seductive love letter to Tel Aviv…” – David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter Official Selection -- San Francisco Jewish Film Festival WALL-TO-WALL A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. for viewing with the film.

Community Partner: ReelQ Film Festival Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 Available for viewing April 22, 7pm PA, WV, and OH only

PA, WV, and OH only

Join the Film Pittsburgh staff for a fun and festive ZOOM INTEGRATED BRANDING + DIGITAL DESIGN WALLTOWALL.COM after-party at 8:45pm.

Special ticket price applies. This is a fundraiser for Film Pittsburgh. (Thank you!) The film will be available for the duration of the festival if you are unable to join us on opening night.

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 7 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE (in alphabetical order)

Aulcie Breaking Bread Director: Dani Menkin Director: Beth Elise Hawk 2020, USA/Israel, 74 minutes 2020, USA/Israel, 86 minutes English and Hebrew with subtitles English and Hebrew with subtitles One of Israel’s greatest athletes captures the spirit of a na- The first Muslim Arab to win Israel’s MasterChef television tion while triumphing against the odds, in this crowd-pleas- competition, Dr. Nof Atamna-Ismaeel is on a mission to ef- ing biography of basketball legend Aulcie Perry. Scouted in fect social change – not one, but two chefs at a time. She’s Harlem by Maccabi Tel Aviv, Perry joined the club in 1976 founded the A-Sham Arabic Food Festival in Haifa, an event and quickly became the team’s leader. A year later he helped that brings together teams of chefs, one Arab and one Jew- the team win its first European Championship. He loved ish, to collaborate on creative recipes like kishek (a Syrian Israel so much that he converted to Judaism. His relationship yogurt soup) and qatayef (a dessert typically eaten during with supermodel Tami Ben Ami made them the first couple Ramadan). But perhaps more importantly they get to know of Israel. But Aulcie’s unprecedented rise came crashing one another and form a human bond. The festival encour- down amidst drug addiction and personal and professional ages a focus on people instead of religion and the public setbacks. Electrifying game footage and insightful interviews instead of the politicians. A timely documentary, Breaking complete this emotionally charged and inspirational sports Bread’s food will likely make your mouth water, while its documentary that revisits the themes of the thrill of victory, optimism just might fill your heart with hope for a better the agony of defeat, and the power of redemption. tomorrow. Official Selection – Miami Jewish Film Festival Official Selection: UK Jewish Film Festival Winner – Audience Award – San Diego Jewish Film Festival “Hawk’s documentary occupies the space between cultural Now Magazine “Whether you love or hate basketball, this is a 5-star study and kitchen porn” – Norman Wilner, Selig Film News documentary!” – John Strange, *Film Schmooze: Discuss the film with fellow audience members. Check the website for date and time. Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 Available for viewing Friday, April 30 – Sunday, May 2 PA, WV, and OH only PA, WV, and OH only

*Film Schmooze is a casual discussion about the film and its themes led by a scholar and in partnership with University of Pittsburgh, Jewish Studies Program. For more information including the date/time, check out the film’s page at FilmPittsburgh.org.

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 9 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE

A Crime on the Bayou The Electrifiers Director: Nancy Buirski Director: Boaz Armoni 2020, USA, 91 minutes 2019, Israel, 90 minutes English Hebrew with subtitles A Crime on the Bayou is a timely true crime documentary In 1984, an Israeli rock band won the Best New Artist that vividly reveals some of the roots of systemic racism Award and thought they were on their way. Thirty years in the deep south. Award-winning director Nancy Buirski later, nobody remembers the hit song that earned them deftly explores the 1966 case of Gary Duncan, a 19-year- that honor and their journey to international stardom has old black teen who was arrested outside a New Orleans fizzled. Led by their undaunted lead singer, who still be- high school after trying to break up a racially motivated haves like the 20-year-old rocker he once was, the band skirmish. Northerner Richard Sobol, a young white Jewish continues to play one cheap gig after another. Fed up and attorney, is called on to defend Duncan who finds himself just about ready to throw in the towel, they suddenly find unfairly charged by a segregationist D.A. attempting to a surprising opportunity that could propel them back into use the parish courts to advance his bigoted beliefs. Using the limelight. This coming-of-age film proves it’s never archival images, court transcripts, and new interviews, the too late to do so. Featuring cameo appearances by real- film reveals not only the story of this landmark Civil Rights life Israeli pop icons, The Electrifiers is a joyful, funny, and era case but also the lifelong friendship that developed uplifting film that will bring warmth to your heart and a between Duncan and Sobol. A Crime on the Bayou is a com- smile to your face. pelling reminder of the work that still needs to be done, Official Selection – Miami Jewish Film Festival delivering that message with both heart and conviction. “Boaz Armoni’s The Electrifiers is a charmingly funny film Official Selection – DOC NYC about middle-aged former rock stars who are still chasing “…thoughtful and illuminating…Crime shines a light on a the dream three decades after their one-hit wonder.” groundbreaking piece of recent American history that will – Gerri Miller, Jewish Journal be news to many viewers.” – Sheri Linden, The Hollywood Reporter A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 PA, WV, and OH only

PA, WV, and OH only

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 11 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE

The Good Traitor Here We Are Director: Christina Rosendahl Director: Nir Bergman 2020, Denmark, 115 minutes 2020, Israel/Italy, 95 minutes English and Danish with subtitles Hebrew with subtitles In 1940, Germany attacked Denmark and demanded imme- Here We Are is the touching tale of a protective father diate and unconditional capitulation. But while the Danish and his autistic son living in a co-dependent, comfortable government surrendered and began cooperating with the cocoon. Aharon (Shai Avivi) has lovingly been the primary Nazis, on the other side of the Atlantic, Danish Ambassador caregiver for his son but as Uri (Naom Imber) enters adult- to the United States Henrik Kauffmann refused to give in to hood, his mother insists that he move into a facility with German demands and proclaimed himself to be the one and peers to develop his independence. Unable to easily let go, only true representative of free Denmark. The Good Traitor father and son embark on a sometimes humorous and often tells the story of Kaufmann’s political gambit as he leverages emotionally charged journey of discovery as they try to learn his wife’s relationship with President Franklin D. Roosevelt how to say goodbye. This profoundly moving film was nomi- to resist the Nazis and challenge their claim on his country. nated for nine Israeli Academy Awards with wins for Best Danish Film Award-winning actor Ulrich Thomsen is excellent Director, Screenplay, Actor and Supporting Actor. in his portrayal of Kaufmann and director Christina Rosend- Official Selection -- Atlanta Jewish Film Festival ahl delivers a tense retelling of a true story demonstrating the power of one man’s ability to make a difference. Winner – Jury and Audience Awards for Best Narrative – Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Official Selection – Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival “The latest Israeli drama from director Nir Bergman is a *Film Schmooze: Discuss the film with fellow audience stirring and uplifting tale of fatherly love, and one that members. Check the website for date and time. should not be missed.” – David House, Taste of Cinema

Available for viewing A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available April 23 – May 2 for viewing with the film.

United States only Available for viewing April 23 – May 2

PA, WV, and OH only

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 13 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE

Honeymood Kings of Capitol Hill Director: Talya Lavie Director: Mor Loushy 2020, Israel, 90 minutes 2020, Israel, 88 minutes Hebrew with subtitles English Writer/director Talya Lavie, whose debut film, Zero Motiva- Kings of Capitol Hill is an eye-opening documentary that tion, earned her an Israeli Academy Award for Best Director explores what the powerful pro-Israel lobby AIPAC as well as the Grand Jury Award at the Tribeca Film Festival, (American Israel Public Affairs Committee), traditionally is back with her second film, Honeymood, another outra- known for its bipartisan loyalty in Washington, DC, has be- geous comedy. A young, newly married couple have barely come in the Trump and Netanyahu era. Director Mor Loushy entered their extravagant honeymoon suite when their night (Censored Voices) interviews disaffected insiders who feel of wedded bliss is interrupted by the discovery of an unex- the organization has developed relationships with some pected wedding gift from an ex-girlfriend. What ensues is a less-than-ideal allies in recent years. While AIPAC has been night-long odyssey across the city of Jerusalem which finds a powerful force for Israel throughout its 60-year history, the couple confronting numerous issues in their relationship, Loushy’s film questions its current direction and leadership. while trying to set things right. Lavie’s script delivers sharp, Kings of Capitol Hill serves as a stark reminder of the power witty, rapid-fire dialogue as the newlyweds and their train of political influence and the ways in which it can be won wreck of a marriage look for a safe place to crash. and lost. Official Selection – Tribeca Film Festival Official Selection: Docaviv Film Festival “Honeymood is absolutely nuts, it’s a lot of fun, witty and “Leave it to Mor Loushy to make the film that AIPAC does not entirely unexpected, it will without a doubt keep you on your want you to see.”– Danielle Solzman, Solzy At The Movies toes and you’d have to be psychic to predict exactly where it’s going.” – Rebecca Cherry, Film Carnage A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 Everywhere

PA, WV, and OH only

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 15 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE

Leona Misha and the Wolves Director: Isaac Cherem Director: Sam Hobkinson 2018, Mexico, 95 minutes 2021, Belgium/UK, 90 minutes Spanish with subtitles English Ariela, a mural-painting artist, lives with her family in a tight- Misha and the Wolves, which enjoyed its World Premiere at knit Syrian Jewish neighborhood in Mexico City when she the Sundance Film Festival in January, feels like a gripping meets Ivan, a handsome, non-Jewish writer who sweeps her episode of Law & Order. Detailing the childhood of a young off her feet. While Ivan is determined to become a fixture in girl who was orphaned during the Holocaust and flees in Ariela’s life, she faces rejection by her family and community search of her parents, the story quickly becomes a mystery. if she pursues the relationship. The mesmerizing perfor- Attempting to avoid the Nazis the young girl finds herself mance of Naian González Norvind as Ariela brings the story living in the woods with a pack of wolves. Misha Defonseca to life as she portrays a modern, independent young woman shares her story in a memoir which takes the world by storm, trying to chart a course of discovery and self-determination however, a conflict between Misha and her publisher reveals while navigating her family’s deeply rooted religious values that all may not be what it seems. Blending archival foot- and traditions. (Adult content: nudity and sexual situations) age, interviews and reenactments, director Sam Hobkinson Official Selection – Washington Jewish Film Festival unravels the mystery keeping us engrossed throughout and often surprised. Once all is revealed, the film confirms that Winner – Best Debut Feature – UK Jewish Film Festival fact can be far stranger than fiction. Leona “is a great, difficult and unique piece of work, and a Official Selection: Sundance Film Festival remarkable first effort from a team with enormous talent.” Jordan Hoffman, The Times of Israel “With its deft touch and compelling story, Misha and the Wolves should be a strong awards contender in the coming A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be year and part of the Oscar conversation in 2022.” – Matthew available for viewing with the film. Carey, Deadline

Available for viewing Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 April 23 – May 2

PA, WV, and OH only United States Only

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 17 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Films At-A-Glance Films are available for viewing April 23 – May 2 in PA, WV, and OH unless otherwise noted.

Opening Night Aulcie Here We Are Leona Sublet Pre-recorded Q&A Pre-recorded Q&A April 22, 7pm with filmmaker/s with filmmaker/s Pre-recorded Q&A with filmmaker/s The film will be available for viewing for the remainder of the festival at the opening night price. This is a fundraiser for Film Pittsburgh. Thank you!

Breaking Honeymood Misha and the Tango Shalom Bread Pre-recorded Q&A Wolves United States Only April 30 - May 2 with filmmaker/s United States Only Pre-recorded Q&A with filmmaker/s *FILM SCHMOOZE

Centerpiece Film A Crime on Howie Mandel: Mrs. G Thou Shalt Not the Bayou But, Enough Pre-recorded Q&A Hate Pre-recorded Q&A About Me with filmmaker/s Pre-recorded Q&A with filmmaker/s with filmmaker/s Pre-recorded Q&A with filmmaker/s *FILM SCHMOOZE

The Kings of Shared Upheaval Electrifiers Capitol Hill Legacies Pre-recorded Q&A Pre-recorded Q&A Everywhere Live panel discussion with filmmaker/s with filmmaker/s with audience participa- Pre-recorded Q&A tion. Check website for with filmmaker/s date and time.

*Film Schmooze is an opportunity to The Good Films are available for viewing When Hitler Traitor discuss the film with fellow audience members Stole Pink United States Only and this year it’s virtual! More information Rabbit *FILM SCHMOOZE April 23 – May 2 including dates/times can be found on the film’s Pre-recorded panel discussion in PA, WV, and OH page at FilmPittsburgh.org. Film Schmooze is sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh, unless otherwise noted Jewish Studies Program.

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 19 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE

Mrs. G Shared Legacies Director: Dalit Kimor Director: Shari Rogers 2019, Israel, 54 minutes 2020, USA, 97 minutes Hebrew with subtitles English Mrs. G documents the incredible rise of Lea Gottlieb, a This fascinating film documents the long-standing relation- Hungarian Holocaust survivor who immigrated to Israel ship between African Americans and Jewish Americans with her husband and two small children in 1949 and cre- dating back to the founding of the NAACP in 1909. It ated the swimwear company, Gottex. Known as Mrs. G, she features an incredible collection of archival footage and was the driving force behind the company. She took inspi- interviews with eyewitnesses, activists, Holocaust survivors, ration from flowers, symphonies, paintings, and more for and leaders of the civil rights movement including members her iconic swimwear, which was worn by celebrities such of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s family, Harry Belafonte, and as Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, and Brooke Shields. Her John Lewis. In the wake of growing intolerance, racial bias, story is that of a woman ahead of her time who succeeded and hatred (including footage from Pittsburgh’s own Tree of at business but struggled with motherhood. Featuring Life tragedy), Shared Legacies affirms the need to rediscover delightful animations by Robinson International Short this powerful bond and becomes an urgent call to action for Film Competition winner Ayala Sharot, Mrs. G reveals the diverse groups to work together for freedom and equality fascinating tale of a fashion industry icon. for all. Official Selection: Toronto Jewish Film Festival Official Selection – Boston Jewish Film Festival “Mrs. G is the first Israeli documentary about the country’s Winner -- Building Bridges Jury Prize – Atlanta Jewish Film fashion industry, which was put on the global map by Gott- Festival lieb’s…use of wonderfully different fabrics, cuts and colors.” “If history can provide a roadmap to a better future, Shared – Jessica Steinberg, The Times of Israel Legacies aims to be the GPS that helps society get back on A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be avail- the right path.” – Courtney Small, POV Magazine able for viewing with the film. A live panel discussion with the film’s director and members of Pittsburgh Black and Jewish communities Available for viewing will take place during the festival. Check the website for April 23 – May 2 date and time.

PA, WV, and OH only Available for viewing April 23 – May 2

PA, WV, and OH only

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 21 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 FILM GUIDE

Tango Shalom Thou Shalt Not Hate Director: Gabriel Bologna Director: Mauro Mancini 2020, USA, 115 minutes 2020, Italy/Poland, 96 minutes English Italian with subtitles When Hasidic Rabbi Moshe Yehuda finds his Hebrew school Simone, a Jewish surgeon and son of a Holocaust survivor, facing bankruptcy, he decides to put his amateur Hora makes a split-second decision at the scene of a hit-and-run dancing skills to use by entering a Tango competition with a accident involving a neo-Nazi. Racked with guilt, the big cash prize. Due to his orthodox beliefs that won’t allow anguished doctor seeks to learn more about the victim’s him to touch a woman, the dancing puts Moshe at odds with family, setting in motion a series of events that further his wife, five kids, the Grand Rabbi, and his entire Hasidic complicate his life as he seeks to deal with his own emo- community in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. In need of some tional turmoil. Thou Shalt Not Hate is a gripping drama, good advice, he turns to a Catholic priest, a Muslim imam, that plays like a thriller, posing challenging and profound and a Sikh holy man. Surprisingly, together they work out questions about the nature of redemption. Award-winning a plan to help Moshe dance without sacrificing his beliefs. actor Alessandro Gassmann is mesmerizing as Simone in this Produced by Joel Zwick who directed the delightful My Big masterpiece by Mauro Mancini. Fat Greek Wedding and featuring an ensemble cast includ- Official Selection – Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival ing Renée Taylor (The Nanny), Lainie Kazan (My Big Fat Greek Wedding), and Karina Smirnoff (Dancing with the Stars), Tango Winner – Best Actor – Venice International Film Festival Shalom charmingly and hilariously reminds us that sometimes following your dreams can be, well, unorthodox. A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. Official Selection – San Diego Jewish Film Festival Winner – Critics Award – Jaipur International Film Festival; Best *Film Schmooze: Discuss the film with fellow audience Comedy – Montreal Independent Film Festival members. Check the website for date and time.

A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be Available for viewing available for viewing with the film. April 23 – May 2

Available for viewing PA, WV, and OH only April 23 – May 2

PA, WV, and OH only

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 23 JFILM FESTIVAL 2020 FILM GUIDE Marking 40 Years

Upheaval When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit Director: Jonathan Gruber Director: Caroline Link The Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh connects 2020, USA, 87 minutes 2020, Germany/Switzerland, 119 minutes English, Arabic, and Hebrew with subtitles German with subtitles the horrors of the Holocaust and antisemitism Director Jonathan Gruber, a 2020 Pittsburgh Shorts alumnus Based on the award-winning novel by Judith Kerr, When with injustices of today. Through education, with his short doc, Stu, delivers an insightful look at one of Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit tells the story of one family’s suc- Israel’s most legendary leaders in Upheaval: The Journey cessful efforts of escaping Germany and living as refugees, the Holocaust Center seeks to address these of Menachem Begin. Fierce in his devotion to the Jewish first in Switzerland, then in Paris, and finally in London. Told people, Begin was a pillar of the State of Israel. Having through the eyes of the precocious nine-year-old Anna, the injustices and empower individuals to build a been jailed by the Soviets for his pre-war Zionist activities exquisitely rendered film allows us to observe her carefree and deeply affected by loss in the Holocaust, he was often nature evolve into a more mature outlook on life. Still, she more civil and humane society. demonized as a fascist and terrorist after founding the and her brother Max look for adventure at every turn, and right-wing Likud party. But Begin would go on to be remem- her relationship with her father (the famous German the- bered as one of Israel’s most democratic prime ministers as atre critic Alfred Kerr) reveals a special bond. Directed by The Holocaust Center is currently all virtual. he defended Jewish immigration and eventually signed the Academy-Award winning director Caroline Link, the film, like historic peace accord with Egypt’s Anwar Sadat. Upheaval is the book, is destined to become a classic. Join us for our robust collection rich with rarely seen archival footage and astute interviews that offer illuminating insights into the man who, born into Official Selection: New York Jewish Film Festival of online events, digital war, would become a complex and controversial leader who never gave up on achieving peace. A pre-recorded panel discussion will be available for resources, and viewing with the film. Official Selection – Heartland International Film Festival educational offerings. Sponsored by the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh A pre-recorded Q&A with the filmmaker/s will be available for viewing with the film. Available for viewing April 23 – May 2 Available for viewing Learn more: April 23 – May 2 PA, WV, and OH only PA, WV, and OH only The film and panel discussion are also available for students and teachers through Film Pittsburgh’s Teen Screen program. For more information, email [email protected]. hcofpgh.org

Mother and Child by Bruce Carter Woodcut from the collection of the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 25 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 27 JFILM FESTIVAL / FILM PITTSBURGH 2021 DONORS JFILM FESTIVAL / FILM PITTSBURGH 2021 DONORS

$5000+ $200 - $499 Wendy & Peter Mars Volker Hartkopf & Lauren & Christopher Jeffrey & Andrea Fitting Richard Koepsel & Jill Rook Donna Schweibert Eric Cooper & Naomi Siegel Joel Babkes Emily Medine & Vivian Loftness Bairnsfather Stephanie Flom Anne Kolesar Sally & Lanny Seed Ann Begler Michael Schwartz Ron & Leslie Hartman Brian & Carol Balk Lucine Folgueras Anita & Morris Kornblit Patricia Seibel $2,500 - $4,999 Rabbi Aaron Bisno Robin Reid Mickey Laura Heberton & Lydia Balogh Andres Franco Carl Krasik Howard Seltman Anonymous Mark Shlomchik Gloria Silberblatt Bodek Todd & Elaine Miller Beverly Barkon Jonathan Fried Alice & Lewis Kuller Karen Shapiro & Nancy Bernstein & Lisa Honkala Alex & Mimi Botkin Richard Minutello & Marcia & Philip Baumfeld Ronald Friedman Natalie & Carl Kurl&er Mark Aronson Robert Schoen Robin Gordin-Minutello Jo Ann Hovis Cheryl Bradshaw Dalia Belinkoff Marci Gaither Alan & Margie Leisawitz Roz Sherman Marian Finegold Karen & Chuck Moellenberg Russell Howard Chana & Mel Brody Neila & Danny Bendas Karen Gallimore Myron & Phyllis Letwin Saul Shiffman & Robert Levin & Kerry Bron Laurie Moser & James Joshowitz Joan Wagman Lois Diamond Bron Patti & Sandy Berman Joe & Janet Gamson Marcia Levaur Pat Navarro & Daryl Hutson Stewart Barmen Tim Long Ned & Carol Siegel Alan & Lynne Colker Fran Bertonaschi Larry & Nancy Garber Mimsie Leyton Philip & Iris Samson Paul & Avi Munro Charles McManus Diane Silberg Caroline Collins & Tanya Bielski-Braham & Patrycja Garrett Virginia & John Lieberman Mindy & Chuck Spitz Howard Rieger & Joann Naser Lewis Braham Leonard Silk Ken Zenkevich Beverly Siegel Chris Gelb Richard & Susan Loether Marilyn & Robert Swedarsky Mary Navarro Katherine Bienkowski Diane & Mark Simon James Duesing & Ed Motznik Colin & Jackie Rosenberg Bruce & Dana Gelman Anna & Peter Lokshin Marc & Lisa Tannenbaum Martin & Patricia Neidig Mark M Blatter MD Tom & Mary Ann Slater Robert & Marsha Fidoten Eric & Susan Safyan Karen Gifford Chuck Lynn Carmelle Nickens Barbara Blazick Peter & Sue Smerd $1,000 - $2,499 Jeff & Jennifer Finkelstein Nadene Sales Ellen Teri Kaplan Goldstein Elisa Recht Marlin Lorrie E. Rabin JoAnn Brandtner Sandra Solomon Len & Marilyn Asimow Stephen & Maxine Fisher Laura & Henry Schneiderman Michael Goodhart Amy Marshall The Rackoff Family Benjamin Bratman Fern & Alan Steckel Neil Diamant & Debbey Eva & Gary Friedman Lynda Schuster & Dennis Jett Barbara & David Greenberg Malgorzata Matyjaszewska Meryl Reis & Bill Spitz Farrel & Jennifer Buchinsky Lloyd Stires Altman-Diamant H. Arnold & Adrien B. Gefsky Alison Shapiro Danny & Sharon Greenfield Bill McDowell Byron & Carol Rose Jonathan & Lisa Budd Joan Stone & James Bush Judith & David Ehrenwerth Linda Geistman Rebecca Shapiro Betty Gross Nancy Merenstein Marla & Harold Scheinman Jane & Bob Bukk Joseph Sussman Elaine Gelb Goldberg Kamin & Garvin Keith Somers & Linda & Steve Halpern Ricardo & Blima Mitre Jon & Barbara Schwartz Tina Calabro & Mark Steidl Joel & Tova Tarr Susan & Dr. Robert J. Cindy Goodman-Leib & Deborah Moss Ann Harris Phil Nardozzi Gluckman Scott Leib Carolyn & Frank Schwarz Marilyn Caplan Jeanne & Barry Tenenouser Amy R. Spear Bruce Herschlag & Mary Frank & Sarah Nass Sissy & Bill Lieberman Hanna Gruen Minette Seate & Ken Laughton Alvin & Sheila Catz Stephanie Ulmer John Spiegel & Adi Rapport Korytrowski Ellen Berne & Paul Needle Donald & Sylvia Robinson Bob & Shoshana Halden Barry & Yvonne Stein Wendy & Eddie Shaw Andrea & Joseph Chester Marshall & Eleanor Hershberg Joel & Gail Ungar Family Foundation Teddy & Rhonda Nisenbaum Marlene Haus Nancy & Gary Tuckfelt Art & Marlene Silverman Roseanne Colleran Sandy Hirsch Gail Wedner Jim & Louisa Rudolph Claire Engel & Steve Orstein Vicky & Steve Hoffman Deborah & Thomas Wein Lee & Myrna Silverman Doug & Sue Conlon Carol Hoffman Alan B. Wein Barbara & Danny Shapira Patricia Passeltiner Rhonda & Mark Horvitz Lee & Liora Weinberg Marcia & Mel Solomon Donna Coufal Steve & Adora Holstein Rosalyn Wein Paul & Sarah Sloop Renee Pekor Lynne & Blair Jacobson Phyllis Spitz Rabbi Sion & Helanie David Charles & Marilyn Honigsberg Tedd Wein & Jeff & Kathryn Spitz Cohan Georgia Petropoulos Ellen Goldhagen Drs. Jann Johnston & $100 - $199 Richard & Lauren Stern Susan Davis & John Pierce Lonnie Jantsch Frank Bontempo Sharon Reinherz Randy Weinberg Debra & Stewart Anderson Gary & Debra Tabas Lucyna De Barbaro Ken Joseph $500 - $999 Linda & James Joshowitz Donna Ricci Lou & Amy Weiss Anonymous (2) Iris Amper Walker Dr. Howard Ian Diamond Stephen Jurman & Jim Denova Barry Judd & Fran Steger Sheryl Riddle & James & Laura Wick Shelley Beck Harton Wolf Edward Dinnen Jeanette Trauth Harold Blumenfeld Christine A. Klein David & Barbara Kalla Stanley & Miriam Winikoff Arlene & Bill Brandeis Lucy Di Rosa Richard & Alice Kalla Paula Riemer Ed Feinstein Bobbi & Richard Kann Up to $99 Barbara Wolvovitz William Bron Helen Eaton Krys Kaniasty Sabina & Peter Rosenfeld Norton & Judy Gusky Ellen Perlow Kessler Barbara Abraham Joanne Wright Stacy & Snehal Desai David & Mary Dawn Edwards Beatriz Kanterewicz Jeffrey & Lynn Rosenthal Mara Hellman Bruce Kestner Margaret Abrams John Yackovich Andrea & Andrew Eller Sarita Eisner Sandy Katz & Esther Haguel Arlene & Steve Sablowsky Ian James & Carol Stewart Lynn & Dale Lazar Steven Albert & Robin Karlin Denise Yates James Robert & Gloria Ennis Ivan Lee Engel Bob & Ellen Katzen Elena & Yoel Sadovsky Ellie & Shelly Levine Christopher Amar Susie & Dan Zeidner Stefi Kirschner & Gil Schneider Martin & BrachaLeora Fenster Patricia L. Epps Cheryl Kaufman & Stephen Lisa Scales Patty & Stan Levine Stanley & Sarah Angrist Laidhold Susan Zelicoff Eileen & Nicholas Lane Representative Dan Frankel David & Fran Fall Edward Scheid Keith & Leigh Lewis Anonymous (3) Amy Kellman Isaias & Joan Zelkowicz Paul & Susan Lieber David Gilinsky & Evelyn Favish Kathy & Doug Schiller Paul Lyons & Betty Jeremy Shapira Patricia Anouchi Helen & Richard Feder Ward & M.R. Kelsey Dorothy & Bob Zenkevich Diane & Hal Waldman Rothbart Lyons Michael Schneider Goldstein Family Dan & Ronna Askin Alex Fisher Dan & Donna Klein Ella Zeilinger Ziff Louise & Michael Malakoff Tom & Deb Schuetz The Grail Law Firm Barry & Leonna Fisher

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 29 JFILM FESTIVAL 2021 Page 31 FilmPittsburgh 1789 S. Braddock Ave. #565 Pittsburgh, PA 15218

Bringing Independent Film to Pittsburgh

ﬁlmpittsburgh.org

JFILM FESTIVAL 2021