JFI Next Wave is a community of discerning, Bay Area film lovers as well as a platform for the showcase of emerging and established filmmakers whose work explores modern life and identity through a Jewish lens. Next Wave members receive all-inclusive Festival passes, attend private VIP receptions and parties with filmmakers, actors, and artists; experience programs and events that step outside the boundaries of film such as live music, comedy, art and, (of course), drink, eat, socialize, and network with other young leaders and fans of the independent arts community.
SFJFF41's Next Wave selections cover a range of relevant issues, topics, voices and conflicts.
Become a member at the Next Wave level for extraordinary flexibility to attend everything at the Festival including Big Nights, for film lovers 35 & Under.
Next Wave programs are generously supported by the Koret Foundation and by the Maxine and Jack Zarrow Family Foundation
By day, Leonardo teaches salsa to tourists but has dreams of making it as a classical dancer. His girlfriend Sara is an ambitious lawyer but has little opportunity in their lively but poor area of Havana. Together they devise a plan: Leonardo will seduce one of the lonely women in his dance class for immigration papers and a shot at a new life for them both.
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Who hasn’t asked themselves the question “why be in a relationship?” Sure enough, filming in between her 20s and 30s, American Birthright’s director and producer Becky Tahel, doesn’t take any answer for granted, and even complicates the question by making a documentary about it.
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Based on a provocative autobiography, this story – set in a largely Muslim neighborhood in Berlin – follows a teenage gang member who is caught between hiding his Jewish identity and saving his life.
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