Starting Sunday, See 3 Important Films Over 3 Days

The JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival is proud to present a series of films as part of their Social Justice Series exploring antisemitism, racism, human rights, the holocaust, and issues impacting people who are differently abled to inform and ignite important conversations that need to occur to bring about societal change. “The recent challenges, tragedies and turmoil have made it clearer than ever that there is no better time than right now to focus on social injustice to inspire change,” says Ilene Uhlmann, Director of Arts & Ideas at JCC Chicago.

The series has been underway virtually since January 17 with the final three films showing Sunday, Jan. 24 through Tuesday, Jan. 26. Most films are accompanied by pre-recorded talkbacks with filmmakers and subject experts. Each film has been carefully chosen to provide a platform to inspire thought, conversation and action.

The films to be presented include both narratives and documentaries. The Crossing is a beautifully filmed narrative from the perspective of innocent Norwegian children who help Jewish refugees get to freedom. Code of the Freaks takes a hard look at how Hollywood has negatively impacted the ways in which those who are different are perceived by others as well as by themselves. Finally, in The Homestretch we are given insight into the lives of three homeless teens on the streets of Chicago.

“As a Jewish organization, it is incumbent upon us to bring an understanding of issues that concern the wider community and find a way to connect people,” said Hillary Wenk, Co-Director of the JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival. “Film gives people the opportunity to come together for open and meaningful discussion. We’re so proud to bring these films directly to the community.”

The J is especially excited to be bringing students in high schools and universities into the conversation. Students at participating schools in the area have been invited to view these films at no cost. Adults can register and pay $15.00 for each film individually. Films in each block are available beginning at 9am on Sunday through 11:45pm on Tuesday. Once the streaming link is opened, the viewer will have 24-hours to complete watching. With each online rental, households will be given access to exclusive conversations with writers, directors and thought leaders following many of the films. To see the film lineup, please visit, jccfilmfest.org.