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 Film Fest co-chairs, June Frankel(left) and Carole Genshaft.
Letter From The Chairs
Dear Friends,
As we celebrate this year's festival, foremost in our thoughts is Melva Schottenstein, who passed away in August after a long
struggle with cancer. Melva, along with Gigi Fried and Marjie Coopersmith, was a founder of CJFF and a driving force behind its
success each year. We feel privileged to have had her as our mentor and friend. Her dynamism and unflagging support will be
sorely missed, but her beautiful spirit will continue to grace this year's festival and those in the future.
We have a fantastic lineup of feature films and documentaries for you! Complex love stories, dysfunctional families, and pressing
political topics...each reflecting the broadest range of Jewish values and experience. This year's films come to us from England,
Israel, the U.S., and France.
Prepare yourself to delight in the remarkable and true stories of Yiddish literary giant, Sholem Aleichem, and master hair designer
and icon, Vidal Sassoon. Follow the dramatic re-creation of the French Jews who, in 1942, struggled to survive the Holocaust in La
Rafle ("The Roundup"). Explore the diverse and divisive perspectives within "the Jewish community" as they are presented in
Between Two Worlds. And, examine the ethical dilemma one Israeli doctor faced in treating a deathly ill Gazan child in
Precious Life.
That's a taste of just some of the films that will engage and keep you talking long after you leave the theater. And, don't forget
that many of our films come with programs including filmmakers, experts on the topics, and delicious receptions to enrich and enhance
your CJFF experience. Check out the festival lineup for more details.
See you at the movies!
Carole Genshaft and June Frankel Festival Chairs |
Emily Schuss Festival Director |
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