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The World’s Largest Jewish Film Festival Runs January 14-29, 2026
The Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF), the world’s largest Jewish film festival, proudly unveils its “Made in Florida” program as part of its 29th edition, taking place January 14–29, 2026. Celebrating a milestone year with 139 films from more than 20 countries—including 15 world premieres and dozens of international and North American premieres—the Festival continues its hybrid presentation model, offering both virtual and in-person screenings to audiences around the world.
A cornerstone of MJFF’s mission has long been its dedication to uplifting the voices and stories of Florida filmmakers. This year’s “Made in Florida” program expands that commitment more boldly than ever, shining a spotlight on new works rooted in the vibrant Miami community and crafted by filmmakers who call Florida home.
Leading the slate is the world premiere of From Cuba to America, a Miami-made portrait of beloved community leader and visionary entrepreneur George Feldenkreis, tracing his remarkable journey from Havana to building the Perry Ellis fashion empire. Featuring original music by Grammy Award–winning icon Emilio Estefan, the film embodies Miami’s artistic energy and the Festival’s dedication to celebrating stories born from the local community.
The program also includes the US premiere of Sheitel: The Beauty in the Hidden, an intimate and illuminating exploration of the spiritual and cultural significance of hair covering among Jewish women in Bal Harbour’s observant community. Offering unprecedented access and deeply personal testimonies, the film weaves together themes of tradition, identity, and modern Jewish life in Miami.
In addition, MJFF will present a special program pairing the new documentary The New Yorker Theater: A Talbot Legacy with a restored presentation of Robert Bresson’s WWII masterwork A Man Escaped. The evening pays tribute to the Talbots’ transformative role in shaping American art-house cinema while highlighting Miami’s own foundational film history through the presence of Nat Chediak—founder of the Miami Film Festival and a central figure in establishing the city’s cinematic identity. Chediak, featured in the documentary, will join director Sergio Maza for a discussion exploring the Talbots’ legacy, the importance of preserving film history, and Miami’s enduring commitment to international cinema.
Further championing local perspectives is Parting the Waters, an inspiring portrait of Florida native Michele Kupfer and her transformative journey to the Maccabiah Games. Rooted in determination, resilience, and Jewish pride, the film captures the spirit of an athlete whose story resonates far beyond the playing field.
Also featured is Baseball Mensch: The Marty Lurie Story, a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Major League Baseball broadcaster whose Miami upbringing helped shape a career beloved by fans nationwide. The film celebrates both Lurie’s legacy and the city that influenced his enduring passion for the game.
Rounding out the selections is Justin Schein’s critically acclaimed Death & Taxes, which includes insightful commentary from Robert Reich, Paul Krugman, David Stockman, and Grover Norquist in a probing examination of wealth, tax policy, and inequality. Its inclusion underscores the Festival’s commitment to presenting Florida-connected stories that speak to broader national conversations.
“With each passing year, our ‘Made in Florida’ program grows as a testament to the extraordinary creativity that thrives in our community,” said Igor Shteyrenberg, Executive Director of the Miami Jewish Film Festival. “These films are not only made here—they are shaped by the people, cultures, and histories that define Miami. We are honored to champion local filmmakers whose stories reflect the dynamism, diversity, and heart of our city.”
The full lineup and schedule for the 2026 Miami Jewish Film Festival, including “Made in Florida” screenings, will be available at: www.miamijewishfilmfestival.org
MORE INFORMATION:
Tickets for the festival’s in-theater and virtual events go on sale to the public on Wednesday, December 10 and sales continue throughout the festival. In addition to individual tickets ($11-$54), the festival offers All-Access Theater Badges ($350) providing entry to all in-theater events and All-Access Virtual Passes ($249) giving access to all films streaming in the festival’s digital screening room. Festival films will be available to stream starting Thursday, January 15 until Wednesday, January 28 in MJFF’s virtual program. More information is available at www.miamijewishfilmfestival.org
Follow the Miami Jewish Film Festival on Facebook (/miamijewishfilmfestival) or Twitter (@MiamiJFF) for updates and the latest information about the Festival and attending filmmakers. The Miami Jewish Film Festival is a program of the Center for the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE), a subsidiary of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation.
