Fifth Jewish Film Days in Hamburg: Diversity of Jewish life!

Fifth Jewish Film Days in Hamburg: Diversity of Jewish life!

In Hamburg, everything currently revolves around exchange and the diversity of Jewish film. The fifth Jewish Film Days will take place until June 19, 2025, an event that is now firmly anchored in the Hanseatic city's cultural scene. The event, which is organized by the idea generator and cultural representative of the Jewish Community of Hamburg, Elisabeth Friedler, in close collaboration with Sebastian Schirrmeister, brings a selection of exciting films from Israel, the USA and France to the screen.

The festival, which has existed since 2021, has steadily improved since its difficult start during the Corona period and is now enjoying a growing number of spectators. Last year, for example, around 450 cinema enthusiasts were welcomed who not only saw films but also took part in discussions and introductions. This year, exciting works such as the thriller “Guns & Moses”, which is about a small town rabbi who witnesses a brutal crime, are on the program. This opening screening took place on Sunday and marked the start of a diverse film week.

Diverse topics and artists

The current program of the Jewish Film Days includes five carefully selected films that deal with different facets of Jewish life. In addition to the thriller already mentioned, the documentary “Kafka’s Last Trial” should be mentioned, which focuses on the controversial estate of the famous author and is told in an impressive way through a combination of documentary and animation. The German premiere of the film will take place on Monday, with both the director and the author of the book being present.

Another highlight is the marriage comedy “Matchmaking 2”, which humorously highlights the stories of singles in the Jewish community. The generational drama “The Ring” by Adir Miller and the brothers Doron and Yoav Paz also draws on Jewish heritage by telling a family story over three generations in which a remnant from the time of the Shoah plays a central role. Finally, the French film “Auction” focuses on a work by Egon Schiele that has been missing since 1939 and thus raises the important question of looted art.

Immerse yourself in the dialogue

A central concern of the Jewish Film Days is to break down stereotypes and promote dialogue between the audience and the filmmakers. At a time when, due to geopolitical events, Israeli films often receive less attention at other festivals, the festival sets an example for exchange and understanding. It is therefore not surprising that the events are characterized by a continuous growth process.

The Jewish Film Days in Hamburg are not only a place to see first-class films, but also a platform to gain deeper insights into Jewish life. With a successful mix of entertainment, education and exchange, the team around Elisabeth Friedler and her colleagues have managed to delight the audience again and again. If you have the opportunity, you shouldn't miss the film days - there's something for everyone!

Further information and the complete program can be found on the official website of the Jewish Film Days Hamburg.