Every year, film enthusiasts from across Palm Beach County and beyond gather to experience a truly special celebration of Jewish storytelling: the Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival. Hosted by the Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches, this beloved festival has become a cornerstone of the community’s cultural calendar, showcasing films that explore the rich tapestry of Jewish life, history, and identity from around the world.
This year marked a major milestone: the 35th annual Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival. From January 25 to February 13, audiences were treated to an extraordinary lineup of features, documentaries, and shorts. The festival not only entertained but also sparked meaningful discussions, connected diverse audiences, and honored the power of film to build bridges and preserve memory.
As the curtains close on another remarkable season, we’re taking a moment to look back on some of the standout films that captivated audiences and took home top honors at this year’s festival.
Spotlight on the 2025 Top Films Best Short: The Ice Cream Man
The Ice Cream Man tells the true story of Ernst Cahn, a Jewish ice cream shop owner in Nazi-occupied Netherlands, who defies the SS and sparks a courageous act of resistance. Targeted by the infamous Klaus Barbie, Cahn’s choice to fight back becomes a symbol of sacrifice and bravery. Shortlisted for a 2025 Oscar, the film moved audiences with its emotional depth, warmth, and timeless message about the power of resilience.
Best Documentary: OCTOBER H8TE
This gripping documentary exposes the alarming rise in antisemitism across the U.S. following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Through firsthand accounts and expert insights, it reveals how anti-Israel protests have often crossed the line into open Jew hatred, leaving Jewish students and communities feeling isolated and vulnerable. Join us at the Mandel JCC, Boynton Beach on October 8, for a special community screening of OCTOBER H8TE—a powerful call for remembrance, unity, and resilience in the face of rising hate.
Best Feature: Avenue of the Giants
After surviving Auschwitz and escaping at 15, Herbert Heller rebuilt his life in Marin County, hiding his past — even from his own children — for six decades. Facing a terminal diagnosis, he forms an unexpected friendship with Abbey, a struggling teenager, and the two begin to share their hidden pain. Through their growing bond, they find healing, understanding, and the strength to confront the truths they’ve long kept buried.
Keeping the Festival Momentum Going: Upcoming Events
The Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival is more than just a January – February celebration — it’s a year-round cinematic experience! The Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches is keeping the spirit alive this summer with an exciting lineup of films designed to entertain, inspire, and spark conversation. Don’t miss our lively two-part Summer Series with fresh, engaging films that will keep your summer buzzing with energy and meaning!
Yaniv
Yaniv follows a passionate high school teacher in the Bronx who loses funding for the school musical and turns to an unlikely ally — his colleague, a statistics teacher and recovering gambling addict with a secret talent for card counting. Together, they hatch a risky plan to win big at an underground card game run by the hasidic Jewish community. As the stakes spiral out of control, unexpected help arrives from the most surprising of places. August 28 at 7 p.m. at the Movies of Lake Worth
Air War
A festival favorite, Air War, directed by Roy Hornshtein, follows the intense rivalry between two Israeli fighter pilots on the brink of the Six-Day War. Inspired by true events, this Israeli version of Top Gun explores their emotional and technical struggles, capturing the personal sacrifices behind a nation’s fight for survival. With powerful storytelling and gripping action, it’s a standout selection in this year’s Summer Series. September 18 at 7 p.m. at the Movies of Lake Worth
Best of Fest
For those who couldn’t get enough of this year’s incredible selections, the Best of Fest event happened on July 31 featuring the powerful and moving short film The Ice Cream Man followed by Avenue of the Giants and offered a final chance to revisit some of 2025’s most popular and acclaimed films. Attendees enjoyed curated highlights, engaged in post-screening discussions, and relived the magic of the festival in an intimate setting.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As we reflect on the past season, one thing is abundantly clear: The Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival continues to grow not only in size but in spirit and impact. With 35 years, it has become more than just a series of film screenings — it is a celebration of Jewish culture, resilience, and creativity.
The festival’s commitment to presenting diverse voices and stories helps build understanding and strengthen connections beyond the Jewish community. The 36th Annual Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival will take place from January 24 to February 12, 2026, and promises to deliver another unforgettable lineup of films that entertain, inspire, and challenge us.
Tickets are available now, and the Mandel JCC encourages everyone, whether you’re a lifelong film lover or new to the festival, to secure your spot early and join in this beloved community tradition.
