Miami Jewish Film Festival Returns for its 28th Year

The Miami Jewish Film Festival, a longstanding tradition in South Florida, will mark its 28th year from January 9 to January 23, 2025. Known as the world’s largest Jewish Film Festival, this year’s event will feature over 130 films from 25 countries, including 110 feature films and 23 shorts. Attendees can look forward to an impressive lineup of premieres, including 20 world premieres, 8 international premieres, 9 North American premieres, and 6 U.S. premieres.

The festival opens with the world premiere of Soul of a Nation, directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz. It will be followed by a special introduction by filmmaker and producer Claudine Jakubowicz and a Q&A session. The event will close with Matchmaking 2, a sequel to the beloved 2022 romantic drama by acclaimed Israeli director Erez Tadmor. This box office hit offers a fresh take on the Romeo-and-Juliet story, starring Israel’s rising young talents.

International guests, including actor Michael Aloni (Shtisel), singer-songwriter Janis Ian, and Hollywood actress Lisa Brenner (The Patriot), will join filmmakers and producers to present their work during the festival's 15-day run.

Israeli cinema will take center stage this year, with films such as Air War, often described as Israel’s answer to Top Gun, and Bliss, which reunites Sasson Gabay and Assi Levy. Documentary highlights include Marathon Mother, a compelling story of endurance and inspiration.

Local filmmakers will also shine in the “Made in Miami” series. Premieres include Miami Schmatta, a documentary exploring Miami’s immigrant-driven garment industry, and October H8te by Wendy Sach, examining antisemitism on college campuses in the wake of the October 7 tragedy. Leslie Benitah’s Milk & Honey, Blood & Tears documents the recovery of Kibbutz Be'eri following the same devastating event.

The Miami Jewish Film Festival continues to offer live and virtual screenings, fostering empathy and cultural understanding through its diverse selection of films. For tickets and a full program schedule, visit www.miamijewishfilmfestival.org.