The Boca International Jewish Film Festival (BIJFF) returns for its highly anticipated 2nd annual event, from February 23 to March 16, 2025. With an impressive lineup of more than 70 feature films, documentaries, and shorts representing 25 countries, the festival offers a rich cultural experience for cinephiles and the community. Screenings and special events will take place at Cinemark Palace 20 in Boca Raton and the Movies of Delray, with appearances from filmmakers, producers, and actors who will provide unique insights into their work.
“Our vision has always been to bring people together through the power of film,” said Wendy Honig, Co-Founder of the BIJFF. “This year’s festival continues to reflect the diversity and vibrancy of Jewish culture worldwide. We are thrilled to showcase stories that educate, inspire, and entertain while fostering meaningful conversations.”
Opening Day Highlights – Sunday, February 23, 2025:
The festival opens at 11 a.m. with the Florida premiere of She Wouldn’t Take Off Her Boots, a powerful documentary by director Wilky Black that recounts stories of survival during the Holocaust, and the creation of a Monument honoring those who perished in Liepja, Latvia, during the Holocaust. Following the screening, producer Paul Burger, the artist Victoria Milstein and historian Dr. Robert Watson will engage the audience in a thought-provoking discussion.
The evening features the Palm Beach County premiere of Diane Warren: Relentless, an inspiring documentary celebrating the most successful songwriter you never heard of with 15 Academy Award nominations, and who is responsible for the soundtrack of our lives, penning iconic hits for the world’s biggest pop stars including Cher, Whitney Houston, Aerosmith, Britney Spears, Celine, and Beyoncé. Directed by Bess Kargman and featuring appearances by Jerry Bruckheimer, Cher, Gloria Estefan, Quincy Jones, and Toni Braxton, the film delves into Diane Warren’s life, creative process, and achievements. The screening will include a red-carpet reception and a Q&A with special guests.
Closing Film – Sunday, March 16, 2025
The festival concludes with Guns N’ Moses, a quirky and heartfelt comedy by director Salvador Litvak. Starring Neal McDonough, Dermot Mulroney, and Christopher Lloyd, the film follows a small-town rabbi turned unlikely gunslinger in the wake of a violent attack on his community. This special premiere event will include a closing party and a Q&A with the director Salvador Litvak.
Special Pre-Festival and Festival Highlights:
Technion 10² Screening & Reception: February 26, 2025, at Cinemark. Celebrating 100 years of Technion-Israel. The Palm Beach County premiere of Technion 10², a film that celebrates the milestone 100th anniversary of Technion in Israel, followed by a special reception hosted by the American Technion Society.
Marcella (Florida Premiere): February 24, 2025, featuring a Q&A with Giuliano Hazen, cookbook author and son of the iconic Italian chef and cookbook author, Marcella Hazen.
“This year’s BIJFF is bigger and better than ever,” added Lesley Rich, Festival co-founder. “We’re proud to showcase incredible films that highlight Jewish stories, traditions, and humor while creating a space for connection and cultural appreciation. “
Passes and individual tickets are now available, including virtual options to enjoy films from home. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and more details, visit www.JFilmBoca.org.
About the Boca International Jewish Film Festival
The Boca International Jewish Film Festival has become the largest Jewish/Israeli film festival in Southeast Florida, and is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to celebrating Jewish culture through film. Founded by Wendy Honig, Lesley Rich, and Arleen Roberts, the BIJFF presents thoughtfully curated films and events to promote understanding, tradition, and community engagement in Boca Raton and beyond looking to support Jewish/Israeli film and charities. The Festival has quickly grown to become the largest Jewish/Israeli film festival in Southeast Florida and is supported by its large group of dedicated Patrons including its Grand Benefactors Billi and Bernie Marcus and Marilyn and Jay Weinberg.
