Anita (2009, Argentina, 104 min.)
Dir. Marcos Carnevale
The life of Anita, a teenager with Down Syndrome (a superb Alejandra Manzo), is turned upside down when a van bomb destroys the Buenos Aires headquarters of the Argentine Israeli Mutual Association (AMIA). The movie is based on the July 18, 1994 event that killed 85 people (mostly Jewish) and injured more than 300. Even though everything points to Iran, the culprits were never found. But this is not a movie about the AMIA explosion — it is about Anita, who wanders the city after the explosion, looking for answers. An added bonus is the presence of Argentina’s leading lady, Norma Aleandro (star of 1986’s Best Foreign Film Oscar winner The Official Story and 2001’s Oscar-nominated Son of the Bride), with a brief but key role. Best Film & Audience Award at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival. In Spanish with English subtitles. 7:30pm Wed, Feb 16.
Nora’s Will (2008, Mexico, 98 min.)
Dir. Mariana Chenillo
A biting but gentle black comedy about a skeptical Jewish man who has to bury his former wife. Orthodox Jewish traditions, a son stuck at the airport, and an old photograph interject themselves to create a movingly funny farce. Grand Coral at the Havana Film Festival, Best Director at the Moscow International Film Festival, Audience Award at the Miami International Film Festival. In Spanish with English subtitles. 7:30pm Mon, Feb 14.
A Film Unfinished (2010, Germany/Israel/UK, 88 min.)
Dir. Yael Hersonski
Perhaps the most acclaimed and powerful of all, this is a disturbing compilation of footage shot by the Nazis at the Warsaw ghetto and found 10 years after the war. The filmmakers added a soundtrack, new footage, and commentary by ghetto survivors. You won’t be able to keep your eyes off the screen, but a warning: there are lots of corpses and nudity. Tough viewing. Holocaust educator Maxine Cohen will be in attendance for a discussion and Q&A at the conclusion of the screening. Winner of the Best World Cinema Documentary Editing award at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. In English, German, Hebrew, Polish, and Yiddish with English subtitles when needed. 7:30pm Tues, Feb 15. •
For complete five-day schedule, visit jccsanantonio.org.
See review of Killing Kasztner here.
Related story: The 10th annual Jewish Film Festival is all about healing and not forgetting
WHERE, HOW, AND HOW MUCH
All movies are shown at the Santikos Bijou at Crossroads, 4522 Fredericksburg, (210) 734-4552.
Single movie tickets are $8 and can be purchased at the Jewish Community Center’s table located outside of the theater, but advance purchases are recommended. Visit jccsanantonio.org or call (210) 302-6820.
