Weinstein JCC is proud to host the 14^th Annual Israeli and Jewish Film Festival from January 19-29, 2023 as part of the Arts + Ideas season. This popular film festival is dedicated to fostering an understanding of Israeli and Jewish culture as well as introducing viewers to Israel’s young but thriving film industry. The festival feature films based upon various consideration such as awards and nominations, timely subject matter, and input from the film community. In 2023, five films can be screened in person and two enjoyed virtually. The schedule of films with a brief synopsis and viewing times, along with information about purchasing tickets for the screening can be found below.

A highlight of the festival is the January 22 screening of The Levys of Monticello, a documentary film directed and produced by Steven Pressman. The film focuses on the story of the Levy family’s 89-year ownership and preservation of Monticello and also tells a broader story about anti-Semitism that runs throughout the course of American history, right up to the present day. The film address the pivotal role that enslaved people played at Monticello, during both Thomas Jefferson’s and Uriah Levy’s years as owners. There will be a post-film discussion with filmmaker Steven Pressman, who will be joined by Phillis K. Leffler, Emerita Professor in the Department of History at the University of Virginia.