The Georgia Straight proudly sponsors the 26th annual Vancouver Jewish Film Festival

The 26^th annual Vancouver Jewish Film Festival takes place at Fifth Avenue Cinemas (2110 Burrard Street) from November 6 to 13.

The Vancouver Jewish Film Festival is the longest-running Jewish film festival in Canada. This year, 25 films, including nine Canadian premieres, will be presented. In addition, there will be special events, guest speakers, and Q&A sessions and panel discussions with directors, filmmakers, educators throughout the festival.

Some of the highlights of this year’s festival include the Canadian premiere of Above and Beyond, where producer Nancy Spielberg will be in attendance. The opening film examines the motivations of foreign volunteers after the Holocaust.

Another Canadian premiere at the festival is Dancing Arabs, written by Palestinian author Sayed Kashua and directed by Eran Riklis. The film follows Eyad, an Arab boy from the Arab-Israeli town of Tira, who is sent to a prestigious Jewish boarding school in Jerusalem. Dancing Arabs explores themes of language, culture, and identity, as well as the complex relationship between Jews and Arabs in Israel.

Anywhere Else, starring Nita Riskin, will have its Vancouver premiere at the festival. The movie tells the story of Noa and her search for her place in life.

Tickets to the Vancouver Jewish Film Festival are available online in advance.