UK Jewish Film Festival
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It's that time of year again, when the UK Jewish Film Festival comes to London. This year's event runs from November 8-20, and as per usual, it promises an exciting selection of Jewish-themed movies from all over the world. SomethingJewish's Caroline Westbrook chooses the essential films to see.
Lemon Tree
The festival kicks off with a screening of this award-winning drama, in which a Palestinian widow fights to save her lemon grove on the border between Israel and the West Bank, after the defence minister moves in next door and deems it a security risk. In the ensuing battle, she finds herself falling for an idealistic young lawyer while at the same time forming a curious bond with the minister's wife.
Showing on Saturday November 8 at Odeon Swiss Cottage
Hey Hey It's Esther Blueburger
This quirky coming-of-age comedy from Down Under tells the story of awkward Jewish teenager Esther Blueburger, a misfit who is none too popular at her posh all-girls' school. But when she escapes from her Bat Mitzvah party and meets Sunni (Keisha Castle Hughes) and her offbeat mother (Toni Collette) she has the chance to escape her old life.
Showing on Saturday November 8, Odeon Swiss Cottage, Thursday November 20, Reel Borehamwood
Arranged
This gentle drama follows the friendship between two women from very different backgrounds – one an Orthodox Jew, the other a Muslim – as they each prepare themselves for the prospect of arranged marriages.
Showing on Thursday November 13/Tuesday November 18, Odeon Swiss Cottage
Cup Final
This Israeli film tells the story of reservist soldier Cohen, whose plans to go to the 1982 World Cup Final are scuppered when he is called up for military service in Lebanon. And if that isn't bad enough, he is subsequently kidnapped by the PLO – but football ultimately causes them to form an unlikely bond.
Showing on Tuesday November 13, Odeon Swiss Cottage
Waltz With Bashir
Ahead of its UK cinema release, the festival will screen this acclaimed Israeli film, which uses a mix of documentary footage and animation to tell the story of its director, Ari Folman, as he attempts to recall memories of his Israeli Army mission to Lebanon in the early 80s.
Showing on Saturday November 9, Tricycle Cinema
Sing-A-Long Hairspray
A special screening of the hit musical, set in Baltimore in 1962 and following the fortunes of dance-crazy Jewish teenager Tracy Turnblad. Only this version features lyrics onscreen, allowing viewers to sing along to their heart's content.
Showing Sunday November 16, Odeon Swiss Cottage
The UK Jewish Film Festival 2008 runs from November 8-20. For a programme, email info@ukjff.org.uk or visit www.ukjewishfilmfestival.org.uk.
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