Wes Hopper

an image of a group of Arab and Jewish women in the film Cinema Sabaya

Cinema Sabaya: Women Finding Themselves Behind the Camera

Wes Hopper

January 30, 2023

Both Arab and Jewish, young and old, the women of "Cinema Sabaya" learn about much more than filmmaking during the class; they discover that their differences are far outweighed by their bonds as women making their way in a patriarchal world.

A container of popcorn in front of a red background

Film

The Best Jewish Film and TV of the Past Year

Wes Hopper

December 28, 2022

As 2022 draws to a close, it’s time to highlight some of the best Jewish content of the past year. Art, marriage, coming of age, healing, history, and antisemitism are all on display in a year that has had its fair share of public tumult.

Anthony Hopkins in the film Armageddon Time

Arts and Culture

Portrait of the Artist as a Young Jewish Man

Wes Hopper

November 29, 2022

Two films from acclaimed Jewish filmmakers have debuted during award season this year, each taking semi-autobiographical looks at troubled childhoods. Each picture delivers award-worthy performances from many well-known actors, including Anthony Hopkins and Michelle Williams as sure bets to score Oscar nominations.

the cast of The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem on Netflix

Israeli Arts and Culture

The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem Looks at Israel’s Sephardi Roots

Wes Hopper

November 15, 2022

American audiences may be unaware of the remarkable new series, The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem, which debuted on Netflix earlier this year. This award-winning TV show follows in the footsteps of other acclaimed Israeli exports like Shtisel and Fauda.

Stories for the Sake of Argument, by Abi Dauber Sterne and Robbie Gringras

Could The Solution to Today’s Problems Be More Arguing, Not Less?

Wes Hopper

Stories for the Sake of Argument, by Abi Dauber Sterne and Robbie Gringras, is filled with short stories designed to spur family members or groups to engage in healthy disagreement on hot button issues.