The Jewish & Israeli Film Festival is in full swing with showings continuing throughout February! The Mayerson JCC Jewish & Israeli Film Festival presents a diverse, inspiring lineup of award-winning films and engaging, educational programming that connects to Jewish and Israeli stories. The 2026 lineup includes 13 in-person showings, including special features such as short films, film discussions, and an opening and closing reception!
We talked to the festival chair, Aaron Weiner, to learn more about the history and impact of the festival, as well as what is new this year.
How long have you been the chair of the Jewish & Israeli Film Festival, and what brought you to that position?
I have been on the committee for seven seasons, and this is my fourth season as the chair. I was asked to chair when Stacey Schimberg decided to step down. I believe my dedication to the festival and my past experience chairing events and organizing fundraisers was what prompted my appointment. When I expressed interest in coming onto the Film Festival Committee initially, I asked Stacey if I could be her co-chair, and that may have planted the seed.
How has the Film Festival changed and grown over the years that you’ve been involved?
I started at the height of Covid. Obviously, that year we had to pivot to a virtual platform. This went on for two seasons, which gave birth to the idea for an ongoing virtual option moving forward. When we started out, most films were only available in person, with very few virtual options. Last year, we experimented with four films that were available in person and virtually, and it was successful. This year, half of the lineup is available virtually. I don’t foresee this format changing.
The festival has grown in participation, programming, and films. We have introduced new venues across the city and fundraising has been consistently robust, breaking records every year.
What are some changes you’ve made to this year’s festival, compared to previous years?
We expanded the multi-access virtual/in-person showings to half of our lineup. We also introduced a sensory screening of our opening night film, Ethan Bloom, the following Sunday to include people with disabilities, seniors, and other community members who don’t always feel comfortable on opening night. This featured adjusted lighting, volume, and offered subtitles, and more room for participants to move around the space comfortably.
Which film in the lineup are you most excited to see and why?
Being so close to the festival, it’s hard for me to pick a favorite film. It’s like asking a parent to pick their favorite child! I am particularly fond of our Opening Night film, Ethan Bloom. A light and funny coming-of-age story filled with laughter and poignant moments. Some other favorites are The Sea, Among Neighbors, Matchmaking 2, and Once Upon My Mother. Closing Night is also not to be missed. We did a good job creating a diverse mix of genres. There’s something for everyone’s taste.
Can you describe the impact that the Film Festival has on the community?
It happens at the perfect time of year: the dead of winter. It gives the community something to look forward to during the cold months, and it breaks up the winter season. It brings people together, the Jewish community and the community at-large. It tackles difficult and timely issues and offers historical perspectives and narratives on important subjects that spark robust reflection and conversations. It depicts Jewish and Israeli people in situations and storylines that are relatable to everyone and creates a sense of commonality while building bridges. The festival consistently highlights issues of racial justice, the Holocaust, LGBTQ, October 7, and religion.
Learn more about the film festival, watch trailers, and purchase tickets HERE.
