This month, the Mobile Jewish Film Festival will celebrate its 25th year of bringing films that reflect the Jewish experience to Mobile and Baldwin counties.

"This is perhaps the most diverse group of films we've ever presented," said Barry Silverman, co-chair of the festival.

The festival kicks off on Sunday, Jan. 12, at Springhill Avenue Temple with the heart warming film "Stay With Us." It is the autobiographical story of a Jewish actor who decides to convert to Catholicism. But how can he break the news to his traditional Jewish parents? This story of family, faith and acceptance has been a huge hit at festivals around the country.

Author Roy Hoffman will lead a discussion after the film, followed by a reception.

The next venue is the Mobile Museum of Art, where on Thursday, Jan. 16, the documentary "Vishniac" will be screened. The film is a penetrating look at the photography of Roman Vishniac who is best known for capturing images of Eastern European Jews in the 1930s before the war. This is a must-see for anyone with an interest in history or photography and is being shown free of charge. Reservations are necessary.

Sunday night, Jan. 19, the festival moves to Ahavas Chesed Synagogue for The Reita Franco Memorial Film, "The Catskills." Stand-up comedians share their best shtick while former waiters, entertainers and dance instructors recount tales of the family-run resorts and bungalows that inspired films like "Dirty Dancing." Before the film, a typical Borscht Belt dinner will be served featuring old-world favorites. Dinner is free thanks to the generosity of the Franco family. Tickets are limited.

On Thursday, Jan. 23, the festival moves to the Fairhope campus of the University of South Alabama for the film "The Survivor." It tells the true story of Holocaust survivor Harry Haft, who managed to survive the death camps by boxing for the amusement of his captors. Following his release, he continues to box in a quest to reunite with the woman he loves.

Fairhope newcomer and son of Harry, Alan Haft, will introduce "The Survivor." A reception follows the film. There will be an encore performance of the film in Mobile on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 26, at Ahavas Chesed Synagogue. Again, Alan Haft will introduce the film with a reception following.

For the final three films, the festival joins with its partner, USA, for screenings at the Laidlaw Performing Arts Center on the USA campus. On Tuesday, Jan. 28, the festival presents "Ain't No Back to A Merry-Go-Round," which tells the story of the efforts to integrate a whites-only amusement park in suburban Washington, D.C in 1960. Howard University students join with nearby, mostly Jewish, neighbors in the protest as they face sweltering heat and violent counter protestors.

On Wednesday, Jan. 29, one of the most acclaimed films of the 2023 Cannes Film Festival will be screened. "The Goldman Case" is a gripping French courtroom drama that delves into the trial of radical Pierre Goldman, who is accused of two murders. Dr. David Meola will introduce this electrifying drama.

The final film of the festival, on Thursday, Jan. 30, was nominated for Best Film at the Israeli Academy Awards. "Running on Sand" tells the story of a young refugee about to be deported from Israel when he is mistaken for a soccer star from Nigeria. Despite his lack of talent, he is able to help heal the divisions of his struggling team. This feel-good film will leave you smiling, as you enjoy the delicious closing night reception following the film. In addition to our regular festival, the Julien Marx Student Holocaust Film Series will take place in area schools, as its teaches the lessons of the Holocaust.

Individual film tickets are on sale now for $9 each or $60 for the entire festival. For tickets, complete information and to watch trailers for all films, go to www.mobilejewishfederation.org and click on "Mobile Jewish Film Festival 2025."

Most films may also be viewed virtually. For further information, call the Mobile Area Jewish Federation office at (251) 490-4872.