TC Jewish, TC Film Festivals Announce Partnership

When the Twin Cities Film Festival got together with the Twin Cities Jewish Film Festival to debut the documentary Supergirl to a full house at the St. Louis Park’s West End Theater, there were hopes that this could be the first of many.  And, now, months later, the two Festivals have officially announced their partnership.  This year’s Twin Cities Jewish Film Festival is scheduled to screen Oct. 20-28 at the St. Paul JCC, the Showplace Icon, and the Sabes JCC,  with an array of red-carpet premieres and special events to be announced in early September. Beyond the central October festival, the new partnership will also make possible additional TCJFF screenings throughout the year.

To kick-off the partnership, the Festivals will be holding a June 28 gala screening of the acclaimed historical drama “An Israeli Love Story” at the Sabes JCC. This will mark the beginning of the Twin Cities Jewish Film Festival’s 24th year.

“We are thrilled to work with the TCFF, as we share many of the same goals and values – to use the power of film to bring us all together,” said Robyn Awend, Twin Cities JCC Jewish Cultural Arts Director. “Our film festival is designed to build bridges, create dialog, entertain and invite the entire community to share Jewish cultural diversity. There is power in partnership and we believe that the JCCs have found the perfect partner to ensure success for now and for the future.”

Based on a true story, An Israeli Love Story depicts the love affair between Pnina Gary, from Nahalal, and Eli Ben-Zvi, son of Rachel Yanait and Yitzhak Ben-Zvi, the Second President of the State of Israel. The film is set during the turbulent period of pre-state Israel. Margalit meets Eli on a bus and falls in love with him instantly. She tries to get close to him but he’s too busy with the Palmach. Finally, the barriers come down, as Margalit moves in with Eli, but Israel’s harsh reality intervenes.

The red-carpet reception is at 6 p.m. at the Sabes JCC with photos, refreshments and light snacks, with the film at 7 p.m. Tickets are $12 in advance at TwinCitiesFilmFest.org, or $14 at the door.

“At the Twin Cities Film Fest, our mission has always been a mix of appreciation, support, and development, as we’ve set out to not only screen and celebrate unforgettable artworks but also foster collaboration and education among local artists, and do our part to ensure the growth of the state’s filmmaking industry,” said TCFF Executive Director Jatin Setia. “Partnering with the Twin Cities Jewish Film Festival is a natural extension of that mission., as we hope to draw more filmmakers to the state to connect with local audiences, and look to widen the mix of stories and perspectives we showcase every year on our movie screens.”