It’s hard to believe a quarter century has passed since the first San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, yet here we are breaking out the champagne.
This particular festival serves as an unofficial Jewish holiday for many Bay Area Jews, secular and religious. That’s because the community always manages to come together at this time every year for a joyous — and occasionally contentious — artistic experience.
Just as important, the film festival has often been a lightning rod for controversy, providing an outlet for risk-taking films and filmmakers that might otherwise have no forum.
Whether presenting films about gay and lesbian Jews, voicing harsh criticism of Israel or exploring themes that do not always show Jewish protagonists in the best light, the festival has always forged ahead fearlessly. Every year, this one included, audiences can find films or panel discussions that raise the blood pressure as much as they raise questions.
Some have criticized the festival for various perceived biases or slights that run counter to conventional Jewish wisdom. We disagree. The festival has grown strong precisely because of its refusal to capitulate to any kind of social or political pressures. The first rule of art is to tell the truth as the artist sees it. Honoring that credo has served the festival well.
As Peter Stein, the festival director, said when trying to define what constitutes a Jewish film: “It means the audience leaves the theater having a better understanding of themselves through a Jewish lens.”
Meaning that whatever road a filmmaker goes down, if his or her film makes it onto the Jewish Film Festival lineup, it will have something of value to offer the Jewish community — even if it shocks or wounds the sensibilities of some viewers.
As usual, the festival is an areawide affair, with screenings taking place in San Francisco, Berkeley, San Rafael and Mountain View. Ticket prices remain reasonable, and discount cards for 10 films bring the costs down further. So there are no reasons to stay home. But there are 49 reasons — the number of features and documentaries on this year’s lineup — to attend.
So we say mazel tov to the S.F. Jewish Film Festival on reaching such an auspicious milestone. This is an anniversary worth noting, and the best way to celebrate is to buy a movie ticket and get on line.