July 2018

The RJFF celebrates its 18th year!

This year’s JCC Ames Amzalak Rochester Jewish Film Festival marks its 18^th year and Israel’s 70^th birthday. For those unfamiliar with this local festival, the RJFF strives to bring the best contemporary Jewish-themed films from around the world to the Rochester community. Among the festival’s goals are promoting awareness and pride in diversity; strengthening community consciousness of Jewish identity, history, and culture; providing a community forum for dialogue; and creating an international showcase for films which explore Jewish themes.

Screening July 8^th-16^th

For this 18^th iteration, 29 independent films from 14 countries (8 made in Israel) will be screened over nine days at Rochester’s Dryden and JCC Hart Theaters. Among the films’ subjects are a handful of names recognizable to everyone – names like Gilda Radner, Sammy Davis Jr., and Itzhak Perlman. New for this year are a shorts program and the naming of the festival’s Audience Favorite Award after RJFF founder Carl Lasky.

Film Festival Logistics

Ample parking is available at both venues, but arriving early is recommended. Films sell out frequently, so it’s wise to purchase tickets in advance. You can order by phone (585-461-2000), in person at the JCC Main Desk, or online at rjff.org. Walk-in and Rush tickets may be sold for individual films, dependent upon availability. An All-Festival Pass and Weekday Matinee Pass are also available.