The Austin Jewish Film Festival (AJFF) returns in person from November 2 — 12, 2023 at the Dell Jewish Community Center followed by an online section November 13 — 19. Aside from the feature and short films, the festival is host to parties and Q&A events with filmmakers from around the globe. Most of the films will have their Texas or Southwest premieres at the festival, and there are at least four US premiere films this year. Below is a sampling of the lineup and the full schedule is available on the website. For the latest information and to purchase tickets, visit https://austinjff.org/event-grid/

Remembering Gene Wilder from Director: Ron Frank (Central Texas Premiere) – this is the Opening Night Film and a reception with drinks, food, and music is included.

Ron Frank’s affectionate and touching biographical documentary shows us that the full measure of Wilder’s gifts is on display, not only as a comedic actor but also as a writer, director, and a mensch. Told in part through Wilder’s own voice, Remembering Gene Wilder is a treat to watch with its generous helpings of film clips from across Wilder’s career. Yes, there are the ever-fresh line readings (“Put…the candle…back!”) and his manic physical antics—but there are also uproarious outtakes from the set of “Young Frankenstein” and poignant home movies from his marriage to Gilda Radner. Get ready to binge-watch Wilder’s whole filmography—you’ll want to, after seeing this tender and eye-opening tribute.

The Camera of Doctor Morris – Directors/ Co-Writers: Itamar Alcalay, Meital Zvieli (Southwest Premiere)

For decades, Dr. Morris filmed his family. Their lives were captured on 8mm—years of births and deaths, joys and tragedies, dramas and quiet days spent in the sun—all unfolding in the heat of the Israeli desert. Long after his death, the footage is rediscovered. Through the archives of fully lived and filmed lives, combined with recounting from Morris family members themselves, their unusual and absorbing story unfolds. We will have a live-over-Zoom Q&A with the filmmakers after the movie.

My Father’s Secret – Director/Co-Writer: Véra Belmont (Southwest Premiere)

In the 60s, in Belgium, Michel and his brother Charly lived a happy childhood in their Jewish family. Their father, silent and discreet, did not reveal his past. The two brothers imagine him as a great adventurer, pirate, or treasure hunter….but what is he hiding? We’ll present an AJFF interview with writer Michel Kichka after the movie.

Source: Austin Jewish Festival