Jerusalem Film Festival announces Israeli lineup | Jerusalem Post (IL) | 01KV990MXPDMBW0PDRXGADT9CC

The 43rd Jerusalem Film Festival has unveiled its curated selection of Israeli films, set to run from July 9 to July 19. This annual event, Israel's longest-running film festival, consistently showcases the nation's cinematic talent, with many past selections achieving international recognition. This year's Israeli program promises a rich and varied offering, encompassing feature films, documentaries, shorts, experimental pieces, and restored classics, with a significant number making their world premieres.

The festival boasts a substantial prize pool, with approximately NIS 1 million allocated for awards across both Israeli and international competitions. Among the highlights in the Haggiag Competition for Israeli Feature Films is "How to Feel," directed by Hadas Ben Aroya, which explores a relationship between an Israeli dancer and a German poet. Also featured is "Amal," by David Ofek and Nahad Bashir, addressing a woman's struggle against a cycle of revenge in her village. Gidi Dar's "The Wedding Entertainer," starring Shuli Rand, will also be presented, following its premiere at the Tribeca Festival.

Further adding to the diverse lineup are "Where To," Assaf Machnes's debut feature about an unlikely connection between a Palestinian Uber driver and an Israeli passenger in Berlin, and Efrat Corem’s "Heart of Gold," which tells the story of a bus ticket inspector who finds an abandoned baby. Ruthy Pribar’s "What is to Come," also a Tribeca premiere, follows a woman seeking a new beginning after a near-fatal experience.

The Diamond Competition for Israeli Documentary Films will include "269," focusing on an animal-rights movement, and Yael Abecassis’s "I Am New," a personal film built from intimate footage documenting a boy's life after a severe childhood accident. The festival continues its tradition of highlighting both established and emerging Israeli filmmakers, offering a comprehensive look at the country's contemporary cinematic landscape.