Film poster for the movie "Greener Pastures" which will be screened opening night of the Jewish Film Festival in Long Beach Jan. 25. Image courtesy Alpert Jewish Community Center.

Celebrating the best of Jewish filmmaking from around the world, the 19th annual Jewish Film Festival in Long Beach returns Wednesday, Jan. 25, with screenings through Sunday, Jan. 29.

Premiere night on Wednesday will feature “Greener Pastures,” a 2022 comedy about a 75-year-old widower living in a nursing home who endeavors to get his life back by becoming a cannabis dealer. The evening will also include a red carpet with photo opportunities, live music by local band Jazz Angels, kosher desserts and alcoholic beverages to enjoy with the screening.

The festival will be held at the Alpert Jewish Community Center and feature one film each evening (except for the Sabbath on Friday), with two films screened for closing night on Sunday, Jan. 29.

Some screenings will also feature guest speakers, including Rabbi Mark Borovitz and Harriet Rossetto, the stars of the documentary, “The Jewish Jail Lady and the Holy Thief” on Saturday, Jan. 28.

The Jewish Film Festival schedule is as follows:

  • Wednesday, Jan. 25: “Greener Pastures”
  • Thursday, Jan. 26: “Wet Dog”
  • Saturday, Jan 28: “The Jewish Jail Lady and the Holy Thief”
  • Sunday, Jan. 29: “Rose” and “Yerusalem – The Incredible Story of Ethiopian Jewry”

The languages of the films vary, but those not filmed in English will have English subtitles.

Tickets for single screenings cost $20 ($14 for AJCC members). Students with valid school ID may see all the films and attend opening night for free. Passes for the entire festival are also available for $100 ($65 for members). Find more information and purchase tickets here.

The Alpert Jewish Community Center of Long Beach is located at 3801 E. Willow St.