May 30, 2025

We're Named One of the "50 Best Film Festivals in the World"—For the Fourth Time

The Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF) is proud to announce its inclusion—for the fourth time—on MovieMaker Magazine’s prestigious list of the “50 Best Film Festivals in the World.” This significant honor places MJFF in the top tier of global cinematic institutions and reaffirms its standing as a leader in the presentation of international Jewish and Israeli cinema.

With this recognition, MJFF continues to make history as the only Jewish film festival ever to be named to MovieMaker’s annual list, which highlights festivals that filmmakers and audiences alike regard as transformative experiences. The 2025 edition of the list celebrates festivals that exhibit exceptional programming, hospitality, audience engagement, and cultural impact.

This latest honor from MovieMaker Magazine reflects the Festival’s enduring commitment to excellence and its growing influence on the international stage. It stands as a testament to the thousands of supporters, artists, and community members who continue to champion MJFF’s mission to bridge cultures, foster meaningful dialogue, and amplify Jewish voices through the power of cinema.

Now in its 29th year, MJFF has grown to become the largest Jewish cultural event in the world and the largest Jewish film program ever presented, drawing an expansive audience of over 58,500 attendees across South Florida and beyond. In its most recent edition, the Festival showcased more than 120 films, supported over 100 filmmakers and artists, and hosted an array of premieres, panel discussions, and community events that underscored its role as a convener of culture, connection, and inclusion.

A Cultural Beacon Amid Rising Antisemitism

As antisemitism and hate crimes rise across the globe, the Miami Jewish Film Festival stands at the forefront of a cultural response that emphasizes empathy, understanding, and the power of storytelling. Through its films and programs, MJFF provides a vital platform for stories that are often marginalized, giving voice to Jewish and Israeli filmmakers and illuminating a rich tapestry of global Jewish life.

The Festival’s year-round efforts include educational initiatives, artist fellowships, filmmaker residencies, and partnerships with schools, synagogues, and civic institutions, reflecting its deep investment in community engagement and impact.

Through its partnerships with local schools, universities, and cultural institutions, MJFF is helping to shape the next generation’s understanding of Jewish heritage and the power of cultural storytelling. The Festival’s commitment to truth-telling and human rights advocacy has not only strengthened community bonds but also drawn international attention to the role of arts and cinema in combating hate and ignorance.

Looking Ahead to the 29th Edition in 2026

The 29th edition of the Miami Jewish Film Festival will return January 15-29, 2026, continuing its tradition of transforming Miami into a dynamic hub of international cinema, cultural exchange, and artistic discovery. The upcoming Festival is expected to build on past successes while introducing new venues, expanded programs, and collaborative projects designed to further elevate Jewish and Israeli voices in the cinematic arts.

Submissions for the 2026 Festival are now officially open via FilmFreeway and are encouraged from filmmakers of all backgrounds whose work aligns with the Festival’s mission of storytelling, inclusion, and cultural exploration.