About
Mission and Values
As we enter our 13th year, the Santa Cruz Jewish Film Festival Committee is proud to celebrate the richness and diversity of our Jewish world through the magical lens of media. Each year, our film committee takes you on an eye-opening global journey fostering diverse Jewish cultural awareness while building bridges of understanding through film.
Our festival program aims to educate and illuminate through evocative, award-winning independent films that portray the Jewish experience, with both current and historic perspectives to the community at large. Our goal is to create community, strengthen consciousness of Jewish identity, and provide a dynamic forum for exploration and dialogue about the Jewish experience.
History
The SCJFF was sparked by a conversation between Rabbi Rick Litvak and Marilyn Rigler and their mutual love of Jewish film and baseball. We began with a single film, The Life and Times of Hank Greenberg, about the first Jewish ballplayer in a major baseball league. We did not know how to gauge the reception of this film, and to the committee’s surprise and delight, people kept arriving in droves until we were “squeezed like sardines” in the tiny library of Temple Beth El. Each year, we increased our committee members and number of films as our festival flourishing into a highly anticipated and well-received Jewish film festival in Santa Cruz County. From a modest beginning of two-four films in a single weekend, our festival grew to two weekends showing as many as ten films.
The sky’s the limit! Where do we go from here? With our ever growing, unwavering support from sponsors, volunteers and fans, we are proud to envision a professional and sophisticated film festival in the theater venues in downtown Santa Cruz with speakers and commentators.
Business Committee
Eve Eden
Leah Kushner
Dan Gold
Film Viewing Committee
Eve Eden
Leah Kushner
Dan Gold
Roberta Friedman
Paul Drescher
Marilyn Rigler
Ayelet Almog
Fundraising Team
Leah Kushner
Eve Eden
Stuart Rosenstein
Jessica Wolf
Web Design and Management
Leah Kushner
Susan Kurtz
FAQ
Q: Do we have reserved seats?
We have reserved seats in the front for vision/hearing impaired viewers.
Q: Will there be food served?
On opening night, there will be a reception. Other nights will offer food for sale.
Q: Can anyone come, even if you’re not Jewish?
The festival is open to everyone, of every race and religion.
Q: Can I get a package price for the whole festival?
Please view our ticket section for information.
Q: Where is the Jewish Community Center of Santa Cruz?
The Jewish Community Center of Santa Cruz is also known as Temple Beth El, which is located at 3221 Porter Gulch Road. Please view our “Venues” section map and directions.
Q: Do the films have a rating system?
Films do not have rating information and parental discretion is advised. Films designated “Adult Content” may contain sexual content, explicit language, violence and/or involve nudity.
Q. Are there facilities for disabled people?
Yes, all venues are wheelchair accessible.
Q: Can I give you feedback on any of the films?
We have feedback forms on line, and at the screenings as well. We welcome your comments and suggestions.
Q: How does someone get on your committee or volunteer?
We welcome your participation. Please email us at volunteer@santacruzjewishfilmfestival.com,
or call (831) 454-0468.
Q: If I am interested in volunteering for the SCJFF, do I have to make a minimun time commitment, or can I volunteer for one movie, or the whole festival?
Please contact us at the above phone or email us and we will discuss your specific situation.
Q: Are staff people compensated for all the time they put in.
No, this is a volunteer organization.
Q: Will there be any special events during the festival?
Yes, please view our films/event section for more information
Q: Can someone submit a film for consideration?
Yes, please email us at info@santacruzjewishfilmfestival.com and we’ll be in contact with you.
Q: How do we contact the box office?
Either email info@santacruzjewishfilmfestival.com or call (831)454-0468
