Cinema as a Catalyst for Informal Jewish Education

Posted on 01/09/2026 @ 10:23 AM

In a vibrant landscape of cultural events, the Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF) stands out as a beacon of cinematic excellence, not only for its captivating array of films but also for its dynamic educational components.

 

The festival seamlessly intertwines scholarship, spirituality, and community engagement to create an enriching and transformative experience for its audience that goes beyond the silver screen.

 

This year the 29th Annual Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF) presents hundreds of Jewish and Israeli films in both In-Person and Virtual programs. Take a moment to visit the Festival Page where you can sort films by genre, language, interest, location, etc.

SPOTLIGHT ON FRENCH CINEMA | The Miami Jewish Film Festival proudly presents a specially curated spotlight on French film par excellence—packed with award-winners, festival gems, and dazzling new discoveries.

Opening Night Premiere ONCE UPON MY MOTHER at the Miami Beach Bandshell Wednesday, January 14 at 7:30pm. A triumphant, big-hearted crowd pleaser and one of France's major box office hits! 

Once Upon My Mother is a joyous celebration of a Moroccan-Jewish mother’s boundless love and unbreakable faith as she defies all odds to help her son soar. This special premiere event will feature director Ken Scott in attendance for an introduction and post-film conversation.

Two Pianos | US Premiere Cosford Cinema Monday, January 19 at 7:30pm Starring Oscar-nominee Charlotte Rampling in a French Musical Drama!

Divine Sarah Bernhardt | Southeast US Premiere Miami Theater Center Monday, January 19 at 4pm A Rapturous Drama About the World's First International Stage Star!

The Pianist's Choice | East Coast Premiere The Hub at Temple Beth Am Sunday, January 18 at 8pm A Deeply Powerful Story of Love and Sacrifice Set During WWII!

Dive into a lineup of unforgettable stories, including the acclaimed dramas Two Pianos and The Divine Sarah Bernhardt, the deeply moving and inspiring journeys of The Pianist's Choice and The Future Awaits, and the heartfelt comedies Lucky Star and Safe House that promise to leave you smiling.

For the true movie buffs, don’t miss the cinematic experience of A Man Escaped accompanying the premiere of The New Yorker Theater; each offers a rare chance to celebrate the craft of filmmaking at its finest.

STANDING WITH ISRAELI FILMAKERS | In a year when supporting Israeli voices matters more than ever, the MJFF is proud to unveil one of the most exciting and expansive Israeli film programs in the Festival’s history. This year’s lineup has more than 30 new Israeli feature films -- the largest showcase of its kind anywhere in the world—and brims with powerful stories, unforgettable artistry, plus premieres you’ll be talking about long after the credits roll.

The Ring | Closing Night Premiere Miami Beach Bandshell Thursday, January 29 at 7pm Israel's Biggest Box Office Hit + Awards Night Ceremony

A Letter to David | Florida Premiere Cosford Cinema Saturday, January 24 at 8pm Producer Nancy Spielberg & director Tom Shoval in attendance!

Jerusalem '67 World Premiere Michael-Ann Russell JCC Saturday, January 17 at 8pm Director Oded Raz & producer Joseph Schick in attendance!

Among the many highlights is Closing Night premiere of The Ring, a profoundly moving drama that promises to uplift everyone's hearts. MJFF is honored to host the premiere of the Best Documentary Award-winner A Letter to Davidproducer Nancy Spielberg, director Tom Shoval AND the Cunio Brothers (in their first public appearance outside of Israel) joining in person, as well as the world premiere of Jerusalem '67, a riveting historical epic brought to life by director Oded Raz and producer Joseph Schick.

The celebration continues with Israel’s official Oscar entry, The Sea; the tender and achingly romantic Dead Language, nominated for 12 Israeli Academy Awards; and the uproarious comedy Pure Luck, presented with stars and directors Guy Amir and Hanan Savyon—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave you laughing all the way home.

EXPLORE THE FULL FESTIVAL LINE-UP

The 2026 Miami Jewish Film Festival is almost here, and we’re thrilled to bring you an incredible mix of in-person and online cinematic experienceshttps://miamijewishfilmfestival.org/films/2026