Jewish and Israeli Film Festival: Kinderland & The Catskills

Kinderland | Documentary Short

This short film tells the story of two secular Jewish summer camps in upstate New York that have cultivated social activists for almost a century and are still in existence today. Both camps were founded by secular working-class Jews on either side of the leftist political divide. What makes KINDERLAND both exceptional and timely is that it presents a history of political consciousness in America, while highlighting the ongoing reemergence of critical social issues and the ways divisiveness is a primary impediment to establishing real and permanent change. Join for a discussion with Jennifer Caplan, Associate Professor and Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati Chair in Judaic Studies, University of Cincinnati.

The Catskills | Documentary Feature

As bungalow colony proprietors, guests, waiters, comedians, hoteliers, and beauticians share colorful tales of Catskill farms, boarding houses, and luxury resorts, they paint a picture of vibrant American Jewish life and culture in the 20th century. With a trove of lost-and-found archival footage and a cast of characters endowed with the gift of gab, this documentary journeys into the storied mountain getaway north of New York City.

The Mayerson JCC Jewish & Israeli Film Festival presents a diverse, inspiring lineup of award-winning films and engaging, educational programming that connects to Jewish and Israeli stories. To see the whole 2024 lineup click here.