Miami Jewish Film Festival: Opening Night

Celebrate the opening of the 28th Miami Jewish Film Festival with a powerful evening of storytelling and community at the Miami Beach Bandshell. On Thursday, January 9, the festival begins with the world premiere of Soul of a Nation, an inspiring documentary directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz that delves into one of Israel’s most challenging chapters in recent history.

The film explores the aftermath of the October 7 attack, the deadliest massacre of Jews since the Holocaust, and the profound internal and external conflicts that followed. Through exclusive interviews with key figures, including former Prime Ministers Naftali Bennett and Ehud Olmert, Knesset Member Simcha Rothman and Nobel laureates, the documentary examines the deep divides and extraordinary solidarity that emerged during a time of crisis. Written and directed by Jakubowicz, whose personal connection to Israel adds a heartfelt layer to the narrative, the film offers a universal message of unity and resilience.

The evening includes an introduction by the film’s director and producer, Jonathan and Claudine Jakubowicz, as well as a Q&A session following the screening. As the festival unfolds over two weeks, it will feature more than 130 films from around the world, fostering cultural connections and sharing transformative stories through the power of film.