Related Blog Posts on Film, Arts and Culture, and Jewish Values

This Summer's Hottest Jewish Films and Series

Wes Hopper
The hazy days of summer have arrived. School's out, pools are open, and Birkenstocks are back in style. Whether you're looking to beat the heat in a nice, air-conditioned theater or relax at home, here are eight films and series to check out this summer.

Eight Unforgettable Jewish Oscar-Winning Movies

Wes Hopper
With the nominees announced for the 96th Academy Awards, "Oppenheimer," "Zone of Interest," and "Maestro" bring Jewish figures and history into this year's celebration. To whet your appetite, try watching some (or all) of these eight Oscar winners from past years with strong Jewish roots.

Breathe Bravely

Tani Prell
This reflection on the theme of bravery explores the ways that the author's mixedness, Jewishness, and range of emotions are tied to what it means to her to be brave.

Eight Jewish Movies and Treats to Enjoy

Wes Hopper
Whether you prefer to watch your movies with a glass of wine, lemonade, or a warm cup of cocoa, you'll love these feel-good Jewish movie and snack pairings guaranteed to lift your spirits at any time of year.

Let’s start at the very beginning…

Cantor Lauren Phillips Fogelman
As we are amidst the season of new beginnings - new Jewish year, new school year, and new Torah cycle - we have a wonderful opportunity to explore the many Broadway composers who were inspired by the Biblical beginnings of the Book of Genesis.

Frank Stella: "Had Gadya" and Jewish Themes

Jean Bloch Rosensaft
One might not immediately associate Frank Stella (b. 1936), the American painter, sculptor, and printmaker noted for his work in the areas of minimalism and post-painterly abstraction, with a lyrical poem that concludes the traditional Passover meal.

Barbie and The Bomb: The Jewish Roots of This Summer's Blockbusters

Wes Hopper
Much has been made of this summer’s blockbuster movie phenomena, Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” and Christopher Nolan’s “Oppenheimer,” which were released on the same weekend. The films have become a strange double feature, both bound to the same cultural moment. While they seem to have little in common, both films depict maverick Jewish thinkers whose ideals created seismic shifts in the world.