Jerusalem Film Festival opens 43rd edition with 6,000 guests

The 43rd Jerusalem Film Festival commenced Thursday night, drawing an audience of 6,000 spectators and guests to a ceremony held under the stars at the Sultan’s Pool. This year's event marks a return to normalcy, being the first since 2023 not overshadowed by the shadow of war, though potential conflict on multiple fronts remains a concern.

Acclaimed Ukrainian filmmaker Sergei Loznitsa was celebrated as the festival’s guest of honor, receiving an award for his significant contributions to cinema. Loznitsa, recognized as a leading voice in contemporary European film, will also preside over the jury for the Israeli competition. Despite the region's complexities, the festival is hosting over 30 international guests, including filmmakers who will participate in jury duties and present their works.

The festival, scheduled to run until July 19 at the Jerusalem Cinematheque and the Lev Smadar theater, will showcase more than 100 films from across the globe, alongside the latest productions from Israeli cinema. The opening night featured the Israeli premiere of Moshe Rosenthal's "Tell Me Everything," a film that previously debuted at the Sundance Film Festival and stars Assi Cohen in his first film role in 15 years. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and former president Reuven Rivlin.