Pop Filter Hot Pick: JFilm Festival Kicks Off with Sold-Out Gala

The 18th installment of the Pittsburgh Jewish Film Forum's annual festival kicks off with a festive opening night gala this Thurs., March 24 at SouthSide Works Cinema. More than 400 reservations have already been made, and if you weren't lucky enough to snag one, you can sign up for the event's waiting list.

Founded 18 years ago by a sole volunteer, JFilm has grown to include a committee of 50 dedicated people. "I think the fact that we have fifty volunteers is what makes this festival so successful," says JFilm's executive director, Kathryn Spitz Cohan. With 20 titles from nine countries, JFilm is helping to put Pittsburgh on the international film festival map.

"The majority of our films do not have religious content. There is a relationship to Judaism, but this festival is not just for Jews. We highlight quality films from around the world. Our goal to show the best films to as wide a range of people as possible."

The festival's reach is impressive, with eight venues that span Mt. Lebanon to Cranberry, and many city spots in between. Among the narrative and documentary films are 11 Pittsburgh premieres. The festival also features three Israel-based filmmakers, who will lead compelling discussion programs.

Underscoring and highlighting the issues, themes and stories explored in the films, the festival also features an engaging series of interdisciplinary and multimedia events.

Following Precious Life--about a Palestinian couple who has lost two infants due to complications with their immune systems who works with Israeli doctors and a Gaza reporter to save the life of a new baby suffering similar problems--JFilm will lead a video conference with the film's doctor.

Don't miss Phobidilia, a poignant examination of the isolation of today's digital age, by brothers Doron and Yoav Paz, who will be guest speakers. A film about master violin maker Amnon Weinstein, who restores instruments violins saved from the Holocaust will be followed by live concert.

The festival wraps on April 10 with Diplomat at SouthSide Works. Directed by Dana Goren, the Israeli film is set within Jerusalem's luxurious Hotel Diplomat. Once known for its lush lawns, ornate interiors and exclusive patrons, the hotel is now home to some 600 immigrants from the former Soviet Union who were never integrated into Israeli society. Goren, who worked in residence with JFilm in Pittsburgh in 2010, will be on site to discuss the film.

Tired of the same old book group? For those looking for an informal cinema chat, check out the organization's new Film Schmooze program, which features intimate and in-depth post-screening conversations in a SouthsideWorks coffeehouse.

JFilm has been undergoing a significant transformation, changing its name in 2009, working with Wall-to-Wall Studios on new branding projects, and receiving support from national foundations. In addition to its signature film festival, JFilm also runs ongoing film and education programs, including its popular Teen Screen series for school groups.

View a complete schedule.

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