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Letter From The Chairs

Dear Friends,

This year, our team has chosen a fantastic lineup of feature films and documentaries covering topics from the Holocaust and terrorism to poetry slams and baseball...all reflecting Jewish values and sensibilities drawn from history and culture throughout the Diaspora and Israel.

Delight in the story of four obese Israeli friends who find self-respect and romance through the world of sumo wrestling. Have your lives touched as you wander the streets of Buenos Aires with a Down Syndrome Jewish girl in the wake of a terrorist bombing. Follow the rise of Jewish graphic artists and their impact on pop culture and the art world, and enjoy a tour of the new R. Crumb exhibit at the Columbus Museum of Art. Learn about high school poetry slams that have become a national sensation and meet the filmmaker, Columbus native, Greg Jacobs. And, who says the influence of Jews in American sports is "minor league?" Check out the real story of Jews in the game of baseball as Dustin Hoffman narrates a splendid doc containing rare and fascinating footage.

Another remarkable film documents the life of Ruth Gruber, journalist extraordinaire who covered some of the last century's most pivotal events and who continues to write books and lecture in her nineties. In conjunction with the screening, we will present "Eight Over Eighty," a program to honor eight of our own Jewish seniors over eighty who continue to thrive and contribute to our community.

That's a taste of just some of the films that will engage you and keep you talking long after you leave the theater. And, don't forget, many of our films come with programs including filmmakers, experts on the topics and delicious receptions to enhance your film going experience. Check out the Festival lineup for more details.

We thank all of you for helping make the Festival possible and for joining us this November. See you at the movies!