Chai Lights: Special Events
Opening Night Film + Festivities
ONCE UPON MY MOTHER
In Person: Sat Mar 14 @ AMC Pacific Place | Doors 7:30 PM, Film 8:15 PM
This colorful and big-hearted megahit about a doting French Mizrahi immigrant mother’s fierce, unwavering love for her son and efforts to move mountains for him, swept up numerous Audience Awards (including at Palm Springs International Film Festival) and garnered lead actress Leïla Bekhti a Best Actress nomination.
Festivities: After the film, enjoy a Paris ‘60s DJ + Dessert Party. Grab a drink at the AMC bar.
Sunday Brunch + Film
WE MET AT GROSSINGER'S
In Person: Sun Mar 15 @ AMC Pacific Place |
Brunch 9 AM, Film 10 AM
Enjoy a delicious spread of homemade Jewish comfort food—à la the Catskills resorts—including local Hey Bagels! with fixings and shmear, fruit and desserts, plus coffee and tea, while listening to the KlezKatz before the cinematic main course: a dose of defunct but oh so delicious Borscht Belt nostalgia and a cinematic celebration of the American Dream. Doors open at 9 am for brunch. Film at 10 am included with ticket.
Sephardic Spotlight + Reception
LEFT LANE STRAIGHT
In Person: Sun Mar 15 @ AMC Pacific Place | 12:30 PM
SJFF is proud to present a work-in-progress film and personal family story about Sephardic Greek Jews that features local Seattle contributors, writers, and interviewees. Filmed over 30 years, director Caroline Kaye’s personal love letter to Sephardic culture was inspired by her Nona’s harrowing story and family lore, only to discover truth of their transformative journey was not that simple.
Friday Matinee @ the J
CHARLES GRODIN: REBEL WITH A CAUSE
In Person: Fri Mar 20 @ the J | 1 PM
Come for the great clips of Charles Grodin’s sardonic humor and a plethora of celebrity remembrances (including Robert De Niro, Steve Martin, Carol Burnett, Alan Arkin, Marc Maron and more), but stay for the incredible story his passion for social activism, free speech and advocacy on behalf of the incarcerated.
Closing Night Film, Cheesecake + Champagne Toast
31 CANDLES
In Person: Sun Mar 29 @ the J | 5:30 PM
Join us for a champagne toast and cheesecake reception after this hilarious and charming NYC rom-com, sprinkled with Jewish neurosis and plenty of chutzpah, about finding Jewish joy, having a bar mitzvah, and coming of age at any age. Starring Jona Feingold, Jackie Sandler, Judy Gold and more.
