Tickets are on sale for the 27th Annual Phyllis Hoffman Hartford Jewish Film Festival at the Mandell JCC in West Hartford.

Submitted by Kelly Boscarino

The Phyllis Hoffman Hartford Jewish Film Festival is back for its 27th year and ready to captivate audiences with a diverse array of films from all over the world.

The festival features a great lineup of films representing eight countries, including captivating documentaries, moving dramas, and romantic comedies, guaranteeing something for everyone. The festival will take place at the Mandell JCC in West Hartford, CT, providing a unique and enjoyable atmosphere for movie lovers to gather and enjoy quality time together.

Broken into two acts, Act I of this year’s festival features 18 full-length and two short films, shown in person at the JCC, March 18-26. Act II follows immediately, with a selection of streaming films available March 27-April 3. Special events are planned throughout.

Whether you love the energy of a theater, prefer to stay cozy at home, or want to watch your favorite film twice, this year’s festival has it all. Each film has been carefully selected to showcase the works of talented filmmakers and offer audiences the opportunity to experience powerful stories and moving images that challenge, inspire, and engage them.

“We are thrilled to present this year’s lineup of films,” said David Jacobs, executive director of the Mandell JCC. “Our festival is a celebration of Jewish culture and heritage, and we are proud to bring these films to Hartford and share them with the community.”

In addition to the film screenings, the festival will feature several special events, including REEL Talks, a concert, and a dessert reception. On Sunday, March 26, we will celebrate our connection to Israel on her 75th birthday, with a full day of films from Israel followed by an Israeli dinner.

Want to learn more? To enhance understanding of the film topics, Four Winters, Hartford Jews 1900-1925, Reckonings, Song Searcher, and Dead Sea Guardians will feature a combination of live and recorded REEL Talks following the in-person screenings. The recorded REEL Talks will also be available for viewing during the streaming week. This year, organizers are excited to offer an inaugural East of the River Feature, an encore presentation of Jews of the Wild West, screening at the Parkade Cinemas in Manchester. These events will provide a unique opportunity for festival-goers to engage with the films and connect with others who share their passion for Jewish culture and history.

“The Phyllis Hoffman Hartford Jewish Film Festival has become a beloved tradition for many in our community, and this year’s lineup promises to be even more exciting,” said festival Director Jennifer Sharp. “With a diverse selection of films and a range of special events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We look forward to exploring Jewish history both here in Hartford and abroad, listening to Yiddish music, and exploring the bonds of love in both dramas and documentaries.”

The Phyllis Hoffman Hartford Jewish Film Festival is a community event that brings together people of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate the diversity and richness of Jewish culture and history through the medium of film. Whether you are a film buff or simply looking for an enjoyable cultural experience, the festival has something for everyone, and organizers hope to see many attend.

For more information about the 27th Annual Phyllis Hoffman Hartford Jewish Film Festival, including a full schedule of films and events, please visit HJFF.org

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