2026 lineup leans into Jewish joy and the choices that define us
By Deb Silverthorn
The Jewish Film Festival of Dallas celebrates its 30th anniversary this fall with a lineup spanning comedy, drama, documentaries, Holocaust stories and psychological suspense.
The 2026 festival, presented by H-E-B, opens Sept. 8 and runs through Oct. 19. The annual festival is produced by the Aaron Family JCC. Most screenings will be held at Studio Movie Grill–Royal Lane, with two matinees at The Legacy Midtown Park.
“I am very excited, as always, about our wonderful lineup. We are celebrating 30 years, and always looking to grow our audience, our supporters and always finding the best of the best films to share,” said festival producer Rachelle Weiss Crane.
This year’s theme, “The Choices That Define Us,” connects stories about decisions involving family, identity, love, survival and moral responsibility. But Weiss Crane said the festival is also “leaning in this year to Jewish joy.”
Festival chair Kimberly Ross said organizers wanted the anniversary lineup to include more contemporary films that would appeal to a wide range of viewers, while continuing to offer historical and Holocaust-related selections.
The festival committee watched more than 70 films — about 140 hours of viewing — before reviewing and voting on the selections.
Committee members are Nancy Brickman, Laura Fine, Paul and Catherine Lake, A.J. Magid, Brenda Marcus, Ann and Steve Meyer, Gerri Patterson, Annette Perkins, Robbin and Michael Solis, Karla Steinberg, Carole and Joram Wolanow, David Zoller and Ross. Weiss Crane serves as festival producer.
The final schedule also takes into account audience feedback from previous years, programming balance, film availability and licensing considerations.
“I love films. I love learning, escaping and being entertained through the arts, specifically good movies. But mainly, I love our Jewish community in Dallas and I love to bring our community together,” Ross said. “I feel that the audience viewers become a festival family and I look forward to seeing everyone year after year.”
Among the lighter offerings are “Ethan Bloom,” a coming-of-age story about a 13-year-old approaching his bar mitzvah, and “The Floaters,” a comedy set at a Jewish summer camp. Weiss Crane said the two are the festival’s primary selections recommended for ages 14 and older; the rest of the lineup is recommended for adult audiences.
“The Floaters” particularly resonates with the JCC’s own camps and programs, said Tara Ohayon, the J’s chief impact officer.
“‘Floaters’ is more than a movie about camp. It’s about believing, and it’s what we all want. Campers find community in unexpected ways. Whoever you are, you find who you are meant to be,” Ohayon said.
“The J is an extension of that through our camps, and our programs for all ages that run throughout the year. It’s where anyone can find community. The microcosms, in and outside of our walls, for all stages are very special.”
Other selections reach into Jewish history and contemporary Israel. “Dust Bowls and Jewish Souls: Another Side of Woody Guthrie” explores the Jewish influences on the American folk musician. Three Holocaust-themed films will be presented together Oct. 5. “The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue” follows retired Israeli general Noam Tibon as he races to rescue his family during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
The season concludes Oct. 19 with “My One and Only,” a psychological mystery about marriage, religious identity and change.
“We wanted this to be extra special and it will be,” Ross said. “I know this festival will continue long after I’m chairing. But right now, I am and I couldn’t be more proud of our 30th year.”
2026 Festival Schedule
The 30th annual Jewish Film Festival of Dallas runs Sept. 8-Oct. 19. Most screenings are at Studio Movie Grill–Royal Lane. Two matinees will be held at The Legacy Midtown Park.
For the Love of a Woman
Sept. 8 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
When a mysterious letter arrives after her mother’s death, Esther journeys from America to Israel to uncover a hidden family secret. As past and present intertwine, she discovers a story of love, identity and choices that echo across generations.
Ethan Bloom
Sept. 9 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
Sept. 17 | 1:30 p.m.
The Legacy Midtown Park
As his bar mitzvah approaches, 13-year-old Ethan Bloom finds himself questioning faith, identity and where he belongs. Filled with humor and heart, the coming-of-age story follows his unexpected spiritual journey toward self-discovery.
Once Upon My Mother
Sept. 14 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
When her son is born with clubfoot, Esther refuses to accept the limitations others place before him. Spanning decades, the true story follows a mother’s determination, resilience and unconditional love.
Dust Bowls and Jewish Souls: Another Side of Woody Guthrie
Sept. 16 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
Sept. 24 | 1:30 p.m.
The Legacy Midtown Park
The documentary explores the little-known Jewish influences on songwriter Woody Guthrie and how New York’s Jewish community helped shape his life, legacy and music.
The Soundman
Sept. 22 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
Brussels, 1940. As war looms across Europe, a young actress and a gifted radio sound engineer meet inside Belgium’s broadcasting house. Bound by storytelling and music, their romance unfolds against the uncertainty of a changing world.
The Floaters
Sept. 23 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
A struggling musician returns to her childhood Jewish summer camp to mentor a group of misfit campers. As the camp faces closure, unexpected friendships, laughter and teamwork help them rediscover the meaning of community.
Triple feature:
Three Holocaust stories
Oct. 5 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
The Ice Cream Man
Based on a true story, ice cream shop owner Ernst Cahn’s courage helps spark one of history’s largest anti-Nazi protests. The film follows one man’s resistance in the face of persecution.
Hold on to Your Music, A Mother’s Legacy
Three generations of Jewish women confront the Holocaust’s lasting impact through music, memory and family. Spanning Vienna, London and Los Angeles, the story explores healing, resilience and legacy.
Kinder Doll: A Kindertransport Story
Inspired by the Kindertransport rescue mission, the story follows two children fleeing Nazi-occupied Europe with a treasured teddy bear and doll. Their journey captures separation, hope and the strength to begin again. The film was made by UTD students and UNT Professors Christine Veras and Nils Romer will speak.
The Road Between Us: The Ultimate Rescue
Oct. 6 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
Retired Israeli general Noam Tibon races into danger to rescue his family during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. The documentary chronicles his journey toward Kibbutz Nahal Oz as the attack unfolds.
The Pianist’s Choice
Oct. 12 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
As World War II begins, pianist François Touraine faces an impossible decision. To save the Jewish woman he loves, he must perform in Germany, confronting choices involving love, survival and morality.
My One and Only
Oct. 19 | 7 p.m.
Studio Movie Grill
After the birth of her first child, a newly religious woman becomes convinced her husband is no longer the man she married. The mystery explores love, faith, identity and the changes that test a relationship.
Tickets and information
For tickets and complete screening information, visit jccdallas.org/film-festival.
