From JEWISH FEDERATION AND FOUNDATION OF GREATER TOLEDO
From nostalgic and often hilarious reminiscences on Automat restaurants and gefilte fish to a documentary journey into the making of a beloved film with one of its stars in attendance, the 8th Toledo Jewish Film Festival’s lineup of films has something for every viewer to enjoy.
Jewish Federation and Foundation of Greater Toledo will present its annual festival July 11-25 at Lourdes University Franciscan Theatre. All movies will be shown at Lourdes University Franciscan Theatre, 6832 Convent Blvd., Sylvania.
Highlights of the festival include a question and answer session with Neva Small, the actress who played Chava, Tevye’s youngest daughter in the film “Fiddler on the Roof,” and “Israeli snack night” during the Israeli film “Greener Pastures.”
The film festival is dedicated to sharing with audiences excellent Jewish-themed films that are often only featured in larger cities.
Details of each film and Film Festival information:
“The Automat” – and – “The Gefilte Film, Monday, July 11 at 7 p.m.
“The Automat” – The history of the now-defunct Horn and Hardart chain of coin-operated Automat restaurants is detailed through historical material and interviews—often hysterically funny—with New Yorkers and Philadelphians who recall the golden age of automated dining. Interviewees include Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and more. Running time – 79 minutes.
“The Gefilte Film” – Each year the Hermelin family of Detroit comes together to celebrate Passover by eating gefilte fish. The signature dish becomes a lightning rod in which the Hermelins project their feelings about family, identity, tradition, struggle, loss-and as always, love. Running time – 11 minutes.
“Fiddler’s Journey to the Big Screen” Featuring in-person Q&A with actress Neva Small (Chava) Monday, July 18 at 7 p.m.
Fifty years after the life-affirming tale of Tevye the milkman leaped from stage to screen, the beloved movie’s complete “making-of” odyssey is now told. Rare on-location footage and newly found stills put viewers in the director’s chair, while the filmmakers, key collaborators, and cast – including lead actor Topol – offer surprising production anecdotes. This engrossing insider account captures the triumphs and trials of the creative process, and Fiddler’s unparalleled impact as a cultural force. Running time – 88 minutes, English
Neva Small is an American theatrical, film, and television actress and singer. She made her singing debut at the age of 10 with New York City Opera as Beverly Sills’ daughter. She made her Broadway debut the following year in Jule Styne’s musical “Something More” playing Barbara Cook’s daughter. She is best known for her portrayal of Chava, Tevye’s third daughter, in the 1971 film “Fiddler on the Roof.” Her signature role remains a classic. Neva has distinguished herself as a singer and actress in theaters and concert halls across America, on film, and on television.
“Greener Pastures,” Monday, July 25, 7 p.m. Israeli snack night
“Greener Pastures” – Dov (75) a widower, lives in a nursing home where he feels like he's in jail. He dreams of buying back his old house and returning live there, but he has no money since losing his pension, and he blames the State. When he realizes that everyone in the nursing home consumes state-sponsored medical cannabis, he finds his way out. Not by smoking, but by selling cannabis, which he gets from the other tenants. When love, police, and the local mafia enter the picture, Dov finds himself at a crossroads where he must decide whether he would be willing to risk everything for what really matters to him. Running time – 90 minutes, Hebrew
Cost per person
General Admission – $10 per film
Series Package – $25 all 3 dates
All pre-purchased tickets and passes will be available the day of each film
To purchase tickets – phone: 419-724-0351; email: sherry@jewishtoledo.org; online: form.jotform.com/jewishtoledo/jewishfilms; or at the door on a first come, first served basis. Seating is limited.
Snacks and beverages will be available at all screenings (unless otherwise noted). This is included in the ticket price.
Free parking is available outside of the Lourdes University Franciscan Center.
Contact Hallie Freed at 419-724-0362 or hallie@jewishtoledo.org
Supported by James Fox Family Funds
