Submit a Film  

2020 SJFF Submissions open on May 15th

Rules and Regulations

To qualify for consideration, all submissions must include a completed entry form, nonrefundable entry fee and screener.

In doing so, all applicants certify that they have the legal right to submit and exhibit the film. The applicant is hereby responsible and liable for any breach of rights or the law in the submission and exhibition process.

If you are a local Washington-state resident filmmaker, you may email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to discuss fee waiver code to input during your submission process.

Please note that once submission fees have been paid, they may not be refunded.

Viewing rights are restricted to organizational and SJFF staff, SJFF committee, and at our discretion, possible sponsors and panelists.

SJFF retains sole discretion to accept or decline submissions for any reason. Submission of a film does not guarantee exhibition in the festival. The decision of SJFF is final.

SJFF exhibits formats include DCP (preferably) and Blu-Ray.

SJFF welcomes U.S. and international entries. Foreign language films must include English subtitles.

Film contact will be notified of selection decision via email by February 1.

Selected applicants grant SJFF rights to utilize sections of their HD trailer or Film Freeway screener for festival PR/promotion, such as our trailer, and to share with the press, unless otherwise notified or delimited.

Virtually Together (Again)! SJFF Streams March 4-18, 2021

For 26 years, the Seattle Jewish Film Festival (SJFF) has presented outstanding films and programs that celebrate global Jewish and Israeli life, heritage, history, diversity, and culture through cinema. Please support SJFF by joining us online for over two weeks showcasing 19 virtual films (each streaming for 72 hours) and look for announcements of Zoom conversations with filmmakers, comedians, and online special events! Make it a watch party! Look for links from our SJFF food vendor partners for opening night, brunch film kits, closing weekend, and closing night mixology kits. Follow links on our website to purchase and choose pickup or delivery.  

Quick Links:

STREAMING FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Please check this page regularly as information may be updated at anytime before and during the festival—the 

Ticketing Questions: 1 Ticket/Pass = 1 Household = 1 Device
Only one ticket or pass is required per household, but we appreciate your buying multiple tickets to support SJFF, of course! Each ticket/pass will allow you to stream the film once during its 72-hour viewing window. If others plan to watch the film from other devices or location, additional tickets will be needed. If you received a free ticket or pass from a festival sponsor, you will need to enter the voucher code HERE to watch (and please consider making a donation HERE). Thank you!

When are films available to watch + how long do I have to watch them?
Most films are available for a 72-hour viewing window but there is no “grace period.” Please check the streaming start and cutoff times at the top of each film page, also reflected on our Virtual Cinema Page. Plan viewing time accordingly. Once you start watching a film, you may start and stop as long as you continue on the same device (in the same location/Wi-Fi). Once a film is released, you can purchase tickets up until two (2) hours before the viewing window closes.

How do I get my tickets?
Once you purchase tickets, passes, or a package, you will receive an order confirmation email, containing some links and instructions to get you ready for the online festival and when your film is released/available. If your first time purchasing, you will also receive an email invitation to "Join” the “SJFF Online Portal." To join and access your films through your patron account, enter name, email, and create a password. Logging into your patron account will help you access your Virtual Watch page, where you can access all of your content. You can also view your order history and 6-Pack purchasers can "fulfill package" and select films. If you do not receive the email(s), check your spam or junk mail folder for “Seattle Jewish Film Festival” or "Elevent" ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ). If you still cannot locate the email(s), login to your patron account to confirm the transaction was processed and view your order history, or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for help.

How to watch my films?

♦ Single Ticket Holder Option 1: Film Links - Single ticket purchasers (and 6-Pack purchasers who have chosen films) will receive a Virtual Access email one (1) hour before each purchased film is released. It contains a link to “View SJFF Online” and a voucher code.* When that film starts streaming, simply click the "View SJFF Online" link and enjoy on that device. If you purchase a film that is already streaming, your purchase confirmation email will contain a “View SJFF Online” live link, so you can start watching right away. Once you have started watching a film on one device, you cannot use the link/code on another device. If you do not receive a Virtual Access email, check your spam or junk mail folder for “Seattle Jewish Film Festival” or "Elevent" ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ). Still can’t locate the email(s), try option 2 below, or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for help.

*Note: Voucher codes are required only if you are either trying to watch on a SmartTV using the Elevent TV app, (available on Roku or AppleTV) or if want to “gift” your ticket to a friend, who must enter that voucher code on the SJFF Watch Portal (virtual.goelevent.com) as long as they reside in the geographic region for that film screening (see below).

♦ Single Ticket Holder Option 2: Login to Your Account - Single ticket (and 6-Pack purchasers who have chosen films) can access streaming content by logging into their patron account at goelevent.com using the same email and password registered for purchase. Once logged in, you can "view orders" and under "account" you will see a list of all film purchases. When a film is available, you will see a blue "View SJFF Online" button—simply click to play anytime during its 72-hour streaming window.

How do I access films with my pass?
Pass holders must login to the SJFF Watch Portal (virtual.goelevent.com) online or on the Elevent TV app to watch films. If you purchased a pass online, you probably already created your login. Make sure you log in using the same email and password from that purchase. If you were issued a pass by the box office or received a complimentary Sponsor VIP Pass, you must first create an account. Please register at goelevent.com using the same email from the pass confirmation. Once registered, login under "Pass holder login" on the  SJFF Watch Portal (virtual.goelevent.com) online or Elevent TV app. Once logged in, you will see all 19 festival films. As films become available (check schedule), simply click play.

Note: Pass holders do not receive Virtual Access emails with clickable links like single ticket and 6-pack purchasers. You must login to the SJFF Watch Portal online or on the Elevent TV app to access content. You will, however, receive email notificiations for Zooms (see below).

How do I redeem my 6-Pack(s) of films?
Once you make a 6-Pack purchase, you will immediately be directed to begin fulfilling your ticket package, where you can click "fulfill package" or "fulfill later." If ready, click "fulfill package" and you will be taken to the Elevent home page. Scroll down to Seattle Jewish Film Festival, and click "Search Events"to start shopping on our Virtual Cinema Page. On each film page, you will see an SJFF 2021 | 6-Pack FREE ($0) ticket option, available as long as you still have tickets left. Click "Add to Cart" to select a film (IGNORE the message "this will replace all tickets in your cart"). To keep shopping, click "Search Events" (to left) to return to our Virtual Cinema Page. When ready, hit “checkout” to confirm selections then “complete fulfillment” to process. You should not be charged as long as you have ticket credits remaining, and you will receive an email verifying your selections. To "fulfill later" and access any remaining films in your package, login to your patron account and under your name, click "account." It will show you the number of 6-pack tickets left and you can start the process above by clicking "Fulfill Package." You can always see selected films under "View Order." For each film, you will now receive a Virtual Access Email to watch, or you can login to your account to access your Virtual Watch Page (recommended), where all your content can be viewed and played when available.

Can a virtual screening sell out?
Due to caps on the number of views permitted, virtual screenings have capacity limits and can sell out. We encourage you purchase/redeem tickets as soon as possible to prevent missing out.

Can I watch my film from anywhere in the U.S.?
Many of our films are available throughout the U.S. Some filmmakers and distributors dictate the geographic region where their film may be viewed, so it varies from film to film. Please check each film page for geoblocking details. Some films are restricted to WA State or certain states and regions (i.e., Pacific Northwest, West Coast states). Location is determined by your device’s IP address (where you are watching from) not your billing/mailing address. Films are not viewable outside the U.S.

Can I finish or watch my film if the 72-hour window has expired?
Sorry, no. Please be sure to pay attention to the streaming period (start/release and close/expiration date and times) shown atop each film page on SeattleJFF.org and in our Virtual Cinema page. Once you begin to watch, be sure to complete your viewing the film cutoff time. Unfortunately, we cannot make any exceptions once the viewing window expires. Each film page shows a 4-day period. This means, if a film starts on a Monday at 7pm, it expires on and you must finish watching it by Thursday at 7pm.

Can I purchase a ticket for someone outside my household?
Yes! Films are a very thoughtful gift. You will receive a confirmation email with a voucher code in your email. Forward this email to the gift recipient. They can use the voucher go HERE to watch the film, or click the "Watch My Film Now" button above.

Can I watch or participate in Guest Zooms?
Live Zoom conversations and Q&A’s take place on a specific date and time through Zoom. If there is a Zoom scheduled, it will be noted atop the film page or on our Guest Zoom page. We will continue to add guests and culinary partners for ordering food and engagement opportunities, so please check the website regularly. Once a Zoom is planned, ticket purchasers and pass holders will be automatically registered and should receive an email (from Zoom) one (1) hour prior to the start time with your access link and instructions to join by computer or phone. Only those with tickets to that film screening and pass holders are invited to join. If you did not get the link to join within one (1) hour from the start time, please check your junk mail or spam folder for an email from Zoom (subject “SJFF 2021 Zoom”) or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for help. Some Zooms are pre-recorded and instructions on how to watch those will be available on each film page. Eventually we will post all Zoom recordings on our SJCC Arts+Ideas Seattle Jewish Film Festival YouTube channel. So, even if you missed the live Q&A, you can usually watch the recording later.

How do I order from a Culinary Partner + Pickup at the J, if an option?
We are thrilled to partner with a number of delicious Culinary Partners this virtual festival! Make it a special event: order Opening Night cinema cupcakes, Sunday Brunch Film Kits or Matinee bagel + schmear or pastrami sandwich kits, or kosher Mediterranean for our Culinary Cinema program. Most vendors are offering a FREE drive-by pickup option at the Stroum JCC on Mercer Island, and other pickup/delivery options. Please check our Culinary Partners Page for details (incuding order deadlines) and place your order. Please support these local vendors, most  donating back to the J with your purchase!

More Troubleshooting + Tech Tips

The following tips are meant to help acclimate customers to the SJFF online platform, chosen for ease of virtual film delivery. We will do our best to help all our patrons; however, SJFF is only able to support issues with our own ticketing and streaming systems. We cannot support individual device and Internet challenges. Please first try the troubleshooting steps mentioned in our FAQs, and if you still need help, email  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  with details and your phone number. We will do our best to get back to patrons in 24-48 hours. Please identify the film and issue in the subject.

Watch basics: Our friends at the Austin Jewish Film Festival are using the same virtual delivery platform and have created some great instructional videos on how to order a film and how to use the Elevent TV app (available on Roku and Apple TV devices). Click HERE to watch their video demonstrations and get answers to some frequently asked questions.

What devices can I watch on?

• Computers: PC running Windows 7+ or Mac running OS 10.12+
• iPad or iPhone: Any iPad or iPhone using Safari on iOS 11.2 or later. Note: you must have "Screen Mirroring" turned OFF for content to play
• Android tablet or phone: Any tablet or phone using Chrome on Android 6.0 or later
• TV using an HDMI cable: Watch a quick video to learn how to connect your laptop to your TV this way to watch
• If you have Roku or Apple TV you can download the Elevent TV app. Once downloaded, enter your film's voucher code (sent in your Virtual Access email) to unlock and watch your VOD film through these devices. Watch this video from our friends at the Austin Jewish Film Festival.
• Using Chromecast: Select the cast button in the bottom right hand side of the player.
• Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge. We recommend using the latest version of your chosen browser.
• If you have private VPN network at home, you must turn it off or your video will not play.

Why does the film stall or not play smoothly? Bandwidth is often the culprit. If your Internet connection is poor or inconsistent, you may experience problems during playback. Before viewing, we recommend you close all competing apps/browsers/devices, and then launch a singular window/app for film viewing. Competing household users will slow Wi-Fi down too. Try moving closer to your router, try a different browser, or clear your browser cache. If you are getting slower speeds, try resetting your internet router or contacting your Internet provider's technical support

Helpful Zoom links:

• Download our How to Zoom PDF
• watch this Zoom tutorial
• Visit the Zoom Help Center for troubleshooting and additional video tutorials

SJFF help:

• For purchases: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• For tech issues: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Sponsor support: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Community Partners: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Festival Guests

In order of Zoom Appearance Dates

How to Zoom? All ticket and pass holders will be automatically registered for the Zoom. You will receive an email invitation one (1) hour before the Zoom start time with a link to join the webinar (by computer or telephone). For the Opening Night pre-recorded conversation with Howie Mandel and Barry Avrich, you will receive a separate email with a link to watch on our Virtual Cinema Page.

Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you do not receive a Zoom link (please check junk mail/spam first). In your email, specify ticket purchaser name/email and film or Zoom issue.

Missed a Zoom? Watch all our filmmaker conversations on our SJFF 2021 YouTube Channel >>

	Howie Mandel Documentary Subject: HOWIE MANDEL: BUT, ENOUGH ABOUT ME Zoom Conversation (pre-recorded) with Director Barry Avrich Howie Mandel has remained a constant force in show business for more than 30 years. He can currently be seen on NBC's flagship series America's Got Talent where he has served as a judge for eleven seasons. In 2019 he released his first solo special in 20 years Howie Mandel Presents Howie Mandel at the Howie Mandel Comedy Club. More recently, Mandel teamed up with ePlay Digital Inc. to launch the charity, Breakout the Masks, and a mobile game campaign to give back to those involved in the fight against COVID-19. He received an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program for Deal or No Deal and a Daytime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Game Show Host for the syndicated version of the show. His frank, funny and no-holds-barred memoir, "Here's the Deal: Don't Touch Me" (2009), about his ongoing struggle with OCD and ADHD made The New York Times bestseller list.
	Barry Avrich Director: HOWIE MANDEL: BUT, ENOUGH ABOUT ME Zoom Conversation (pre-recorded) with Howie Mandel Acclaimed documentary filmmaker, Barry Avrich is responsible for over 48 documentaries and best known for provocative exposes of Hollywood power brokers such as Lew Wasserman (THE LAST MOGUL), Harvey Weinstein (THE RECKONING), BLURRED LINES: INSIDE THE ART WORLD, DAVID FOSTER: OFF THE RECORD, and the critically acclaimed film PROSECUTING EVIL. Avrich has also produced the Scotiabank Giller Prize and Canadian Screen Awards broadcasts. In 2007, Avrich built the world's first state-of-the-art movie theatre in a hospital at Toronto's SickKids. Barry Avrich also directs and produces the prestigious Stratford Festival "Stage to Screen" films. In 2016, Avrich released his best-selling memoir, Moguls, Monsters and Madmen.
	Warren Etheredge Zoom Moderator: HOWIE MANDEL: BUT, ENOUGH ABOUT ME + SOROS Zoom Conversation: Thu, March 4 (pre-recorded) with Howie Mandel + Barry Avrich Zoom Conversation: Wed, March 17 at 6:30pm with Jessie Dylan + Priscilla Cohen Cultural conversationalist and storyfinder, Warren Etheredge, is a regular moderator on the SJCC Arts+Ideas stage and Seattle Jewish Film Festival, where he also curates our short film programs. Warren is founding faculty of TheFilmSchool and Artistic Director and co-founder of the Walla Walla Movie Crush. In the Fall of 2017, he launched a new 30-week screenwriting program at the University of Washington and was appointed the VP of Curation & Acquisitions for Heyou Media. The founder of The Warren Report. He is a published author, staged playwright, successful producer, veteran festival programmer and much sought-after public speaker.
	Michelle Paymar Director: FROM CAIRO TO THE CLOUD Zoom Conversation: Tues, March 9 at 6:30pm Michelle Paymar received a Master of Fine Arts in Film Directing from the American Film Institute and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from UC Berkeley. Paymar is a member of the International Documentary Association and Women in Film. Her production company makes independent documentaries and promotional films for nonprofits and NGO's. Clients include Amnesty International (Canada) Alzheimer's Services of the East Bay (California) and Ayubowan Women's Project (Sri Lanka). Earlier films include her pioneering AIDS documentary, FOR OUR LIVES, and SIPPIE, a documentary about classic blues artist Sippie Wallace (Co-Directed with Roberta Grossman).
	Brendan G. Goldman Guest Speaker: FROM CAIRO TO THE CLOUD Zoom Conversation: Tues, March 9 at 6:30pm Brendan G. Goldman is the Hazel D. Cole Postdoctoral Fellow in Jewish Studies at the University of Washington. He is a historian of the Jewish communities of the medieval Islamic world and a specialist in the documents of the Cairo Geniza. Brendan's first book, Camps of the Uncircumcised: The Cairo Geniza and Jewish Life in the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem, is forthcoming in 2021. His second book project examines the prison system in medieval Egypt through Jewish documents.
	Barbara Lahav Guest Speaker: SCHOCKEN Zoom Conversation: Wed, March 10 at 7:30pm Barbara Lahav grew up in Mount Baker and Seward Park and moved to Israel the summer after graduating from Franklin High School. She attended The Hebrew University and Bezalel Academy of Art and Design. While living in Israel, Barbara worked professionally at the Israel Museum in the Exhibit Design Department. Following this position Barbara worked for the Schocken Family, including local Managing Editor of Kol Ha'Ir, the Ha'aretz affiliated Jerusalem weekly and representing Schocken Publishing at the annual book fair in Jerusalem and distribution of the Schocken English publications. Barbara moved back to Seattle in 1986 with husband Eli, another Bezalel alum and sons, Ben and Adam. In Seattle she worked for the local Jewish newspaper, The Transcript, at the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle and worked as the Program Director of Herzl-Ner Tamid Conservative Congregation. Before retiring Barbara served as the Pacific Northwest Finance Director for J Street.
	Joe Schocken Guest Speaker: SCHOCKEN Zoom Conversation: Wed, March 10 at 7:30pm Joseph L. Schocken is founder and Chairman of Broadmark Realty Capital (BRMK, NYSE) and President of Tranceka Capital LLC. He was an Obama appointee to the National Advisory Council on Innovation and Entrepreneurship and has testified on capital formation before committees at both the U.S. House and Senate. Mr. Schocken is recognized as one of the driving forces behind the 2011 JOBS Act and initiated the Protecting Religiously Affiliated Institutions Act of 2017 to combat anti-Semitism. He is the local AIPAC Chair, serves on the AIPAC National Council, the DNC National Finance Committee, and previously on the Seattle Affordable Middle Income Housing Council.
	Noemi Schory Director: SCHOCKEN Zoom Conversation: Wed, March 10 at 7:30pm Noemi Schory has produced and edited more than 100 documentaries including A FILM UNFINISHED (SJFF 2014), THE INNER TOUR, SOS-ISRAEL'S GENERAL, and the historic films of Yad Vashem museum and directed among others THE STATE OF ISRAEL VS. JOHN IVAN DEMJANUK, and TRANSPORT 222.
	Becky Tahel Director: AMERICAN BIRTHRIGHT Zoom Conversation: Thurs, March 11 at 7pm Becky Tahel was born in Haifa, Israel and raised in Philadelphia. She graduated from Temple University with a degree in Communications & Theater. She lives in Los Angeles where she runs Go Tahel Productions. American Birthright is her flagship film.
	Brad Rothschild Director: THEY AIN'T READY FOR ME Zoom Conversation: Sun, March 14 at 4pm Brad Rothschild is an award winning producer and writer with both a creative and a business background. He received a Masters in International Affairs and a Masters in Business Administration, both from Columbia University. From 1995-1997, he served as the speechwriter and director of communications for the Mission of Israel to the United Nations. Previous films include producer for KINDERBLOCK 66: RETURN TO BUCHENWALD, director for AFRICAN EXODUS, and TREE MAN.
	Jesse Dylan Director: SOROS Zoom Conversation: Wed, March 17 at 6:30pm Jesse Dylan is a prolific director, immersive storyteller, and visionary problem-solver. Jesse has dedicated his career to telling the stories of some of the world's most innovative individuals and organizations including Barack Obama's YES WE CAN  video, The Clinton Global initiative, XPrize Foundation, Stand Up to Cancer, The Columbia School for Journalism, The Getty among others. His mission is to inspire passion, engage, and motivate people to take action. He is the son of singer Bob Dylan.
	Priscilla Cohen Producer: SOROS Zoom Conversation: Wed, March 17 at 6:30pm Producer Priscilla Cohen has created award-winning content that is both socially responsible and visually compelling, bringing an authentic and compassionate voice to each new project. In 2008 she worked alongside filmmaker Jesse Dylan to produce the Emmy-Award winning YES WE CAN  video on behalf of then-candidate Barack Obama. Prior to working with Dylan, Cohen was a film executive at several companies including Miramax, Geffen Pictures, and Robert Redford's Wildwood Productions. Some of the films that she worked on include: INTERVIEW WITH A VAMPIRE, A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT, THE CIDER HOUSE RULES, and WITHIN THE WHIRLWHIND, which won the European Time For Peace award. She also served as director of The Performing Arts Program at the Exploratorium in San Francisco and has a background in the performing arts, having worked at several Off-Broadway venue including The National Theater Institute, the Padua Hills Playwrights' Festival, and The Magic Theater.
	Martin Goldsmith Costar and Co-Screenwriter: WINTER JOURNEY Zoom Conversation: Thursday, March 18 at 7pm Martin Goldsmith is the author of The Inextinguishable Symphony: A True Story of Music and Love in Nazi Germany, which tells the riveting story of the Kulturbund, an all-Jewish performing arts ensemble maintained by the Nazis between 1933 and 1941, an ensemble that included Goldsmith's parents. His book is the basis of the acclaimed film WINTER JOURNEY, co-written by Goldsmith, directed by Anders Ostergaard, and starring the late Bruno Ganz. Goldsmith is also the author of Alex's Wake: A Voyage of Betrayal and a Journey of Remembrance, the story of his grandfather and uncle, who were two of the more than 900 passengers on the ill-fated Jewish refugee ship St. Louis in 1939, and his own six-week journey in their footsteps in 2011. Goldsmith has been a classical music radio programmer and presenter for forty-nine years. From 1989 to 1999, he served as the host of "Performance Today," National Public Radio's daily classical music program, which won the coveted Peabody Award for broadcasting during his tenure. Semi-retired from Sirius XM Satellite Radio in Washington, DC, where he served as the company's Director of Classical Music Programming starting in 2000, Goldsmith now hosts music programs on weekend afternoons.
	Mina Miller Moderator: WINTER JOURNEY Zoom Conversation: Thursday, March 18 at 7pm  Mina Miller, Executive Director of Music of Remembrance, is a recognized authority on Holocaust-era music and musicians, and has lectured internationally on the precious cultural and artistic legacy that escaped Nazi destruction. She studied at the Manhattan School of Music and earned her PhD in Music from New York University. In 2006, the Women's Endowment Foundation (a supporting foundation of The Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle) named her a Phenomenal Woman honoree. In 2018 she was honored by the Washington State Jewish Historical Society as an Agent of Change, one of twenty remarkable women in the state, and was the recipient of the Consul General of Japan Award. Learn more about Music of Remembrance.

Make it a Special Event! ORDER NOW >>

We are thrilled to partner with these locally owned businesses, supporting them and making your virtual festival experience delicious.

While we may be apart, and missing the buttered popcorn, our culinary partners will turn home-viewing into a special event. Most are offering free pickup options (in store or at the Stroum Jewish Community Center - check date/times) or direct delivery for a fee.

Check back for more Partners: Coming soon! Wolf & Spice Kosher Catering for BREAKING BREAD Culinary Cinema Film!

		March 4: Opening Night Cinema Cupcakes Trophy Cupcake 4-Pack includes two chocolate/vanilla cupcakes and two vanilla/vanilla cupcakes, both with custom Seattle Jewish Film Festival edible photo toppers!   $23: 4-Pack of SJFF-themed cinema cupcakes Choose regular or gluten free (allergen information: gluten free pack made with almond flour) Deadline for order: March 3, noon Free Pickup at SJCC on Thurs. March 4, 4-6pm before Opening Night Film Enjoy with Opening Night Film: HOWIE MANDEL: BUT, ENOUGH ABOUT ME	via PayPal order by 3/3!
		March 6/7: Opening Weekend Zylbershtein Brunch Kits Zylberschtein's Brunch Kits include bagels, cream cheese, rugelach (apricot + pecan), and babka buns (chocolate + almond). They will donate a portion of sales to SJFF and Stroum Jewish Community Center. $16: Brunch Kit for 2 contains 2 of each item + 4 oz. cream cheese $32: Brunch Family Kit (feeds 4) contains 4 of each item above + 8 oz. cream cheese Option to add items to your order at checkout. Choose free pickup at the store or SJCC, or delivery (for a fee) Free Pickup at SJCC on Sunday, March 7, 9-10am Enjoy with Sunday Brunch Film: COMMON GOAL	on their website
		March 11: Culinary Cinema Kosher Mediterranean + a Movie Wolf & Spice Menu: Seattle's new Va'ad-certified Kosher caterer is offering two delectable dinner options for our Middle Eastern Culinary Cinema program. They will donate a portion of sales to SJFF and Stroum Jewish Community Center. $15: Schawarma made from slow roasted chicken thighs, coated in a delicious spice blend, and served with earthy hummus, zesty Israeli salad, and homemade charrif. Includes house salad. $15: Beef or Vegetarian (Impossible Meat) Arayas. A Lebanese dish seasoned and stuffed into pita grilled over an open fire with homemade chipotle aioli. Includes choice of side salad or roasted potatoes.  Order cutoff: March 8, 9pm! Pickup Only: Choose location at checkout (N. Seattle, Seward Park, or Eastside) Enjoy with our Culinary Cinema Film: BREAKING BREAD	on their website order by 3/8!
		March 14: Sunday Rubinstein Bagels Pop-Up on Mercer Island Menu Options: $12: Bagel + Lox Sandwich Kit -  choice of bagel, portion of lox, red onion, capers $12: Pastrami Sandwich Kit with all the fixings: choice of bagel, horseradish coleslaw, yellow mustard, mayo  $22: Half-dozen bagels + 8 oz. shmear Choose free pickup at the store or SJCC. Delivery weekdays only (for a fee).  Free Pickup at SJCC on Sunday, March 14, 10-11am (in-store pickup or midweek delivery anytime during the festival) Enjoy with Sunday Matinee: ON BROADWAY	on their website

Virtual Cinema: Streaming Film Year-Round

For 26 years, the Seattle Jewish Film Festival (SJFF) has presented outstanding films and programs that celebrate global Jewish and Israeli life, heritage, history, diversity, and culture through cinema (Save the Date!  27th annual SJFF: March 24 - April 10, 2022).  We are pleased to announce SJFF Virtual Cinema -- a series of monthly streaming films, available online for 72 hours and in some cases up to a week. Virtual Cinema tickets are by household, so make it a watch party!

Quick Links:

STREAMING FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Please check this page regularly as information is updated often.

Ticketing Questions: 1 Ticket = 1 Household = 1 Device
Only one ticket is required per household, but we appreciate your buying multiple tickets for each home viewer to support SJFF, of course! Each ticket allows you to stream the film once during its specified viewing window. If others plan to watch the film from other devices or location, additional tickets will be needed. If you receive a free ticket from someone else, you will need to enter the voucher code HERE to watch and enter the code.

When are films available to watch + how long do I have to watch them?
Most films are available for an extended viewing window (72 hours to one week, depending on the film), but there is NO “grace period.” Viewing windows (streaming start and cutoff times) are clearly communicated on our website event pages (www.sjcc.org/ARTS) and on each film's Virtual Cinema Page. Plan viewing time accordingly. Once you start watching a film, you may start and stop as long as you continue on the same device (in the same location/Wi-Fi), but you cannot finish a film past the cutoff time. You can purchase tickets to view a film until two (2) hours before the viewing window cutoff time.In other words, you can purchase a ticket up until 5pm for a film screening until 7pm that day, but you must finish the film by 7pm. Streaming acess ceases at that cutoff time.

How do I get my tickets?
Once you purchase a ticket, you will receive an order confirmation email, containing links and instructions to get you ready for when the film is released/available (if already available, you will receive a link to "watch now" aftr purchase. If your first time purchasing, you will be prompted to set up a login and password. This will enable you to create a patron account, where you can log in to view your order history or access watch links for your available content. If you do not receive the confirmation email(s), PLEASE CHECK YOUR SPAM OR JUNK MAIL for “Seattle Jewish Film Festival” or "Elevent" ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ). If you still cannot locate the email(s), login to your patron account to confirm the transaction was processed and view your order history and find watch links for your films (as long as they are currently playing during their viewing window). Need more help, contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 206.388.0833 (during regular business hours). It may take us 24 hours to reply.

How to watch my films?

♦ OPTION 1 >> Watch Link in my Virtual Access Email - Ticket purchasers will receive a Virtual Access email one (1) hour before your purchased film is released. It contains a link to “View SJFF Online” and a voucher code.* When that film viewing window opens, your film is avaialble and you can start streaming: simply click the "View SJFF Online" link and enjoy the film on the same device. If you purchase a film that is currently streaming, your purchase confirmation email will contain a live watch link to “View SJFF Online," so you can start watching right away. Once you have started watching a film on one device, you cannot use the link/code on another device. If you do not receive a Virtual Access email, check your spam or junk mail folder for “Seattle Jewish Film Festival” or "Elevent" ( This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ). Still can’t locate the email(s), try option 2 below, or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for help.*Note: Voucher codes are required only if you are either trying to watch on a SmartTV using the Elevent TV app, (available on Roku or AppleTV) or if want to “gift” your ticket to a friend, who must enter that voucher code on the SJFF Watch Portal (virtual.goelevent.com) as long as they reside in the geographic region for that film screening (see below).

♦ OPTION 2 >> Watch Link in My Patron Account (Login Online) - Ticket purchasers can access purchased and available streaming films by logging into their patron account at goelevent.com (using the same email and password registered for your original purchase). Once logged in, under "account" or "view orders" (upper right hand corner), you will see a list of your purchased films; and if any are available for streaming (during their viewing window) you will see a blue "View SJFF Online" button—simply click it to play that film anytime during its streaming window.

Can a virtual screening sell out?
Due to caps on the number of views permitted, virtual screenings have capacity limits and can sell out. We encourage you purchase/redeem tickets as soon as possible to prevent missing out.

Can I watch my film from anywhere in the U.S.?
Some filmmakers and distributors dictate the geographic region where their film may be viewed, so it varies from film to film. Geoblocking (geographical parameters) will be specified in the film description and if you are outside the region, our ticketing system will warn you. Some films are restricted to WA State or certain states and regions (i.e., Pacific Northwest, West Coast states). Location is determined by your device’s IP address (where you are watching from) not your billing/mailing address. 

Can I finish or watch my film if the 72-hour window has expired?
Sorry, no. Please be sure to pay attention to the streaming period (start/release and close/cutoff expiration date and times) shown atop each film page on our website: www.SJCC.org/ARTS amd our Virtual Cinema page. Once you begin to watch, be sure to complete your viewing the close/cutoff time. Unfortunately, we cannot make any exceptions once the viewing window expires.

Can I purchase a ticket for someone outside my household?
Yes! Films are a very thoughtful gift. You will receive a confirmation email with a voucher code in your email. Forward this email to the gift recipient. They can use the voucher go HERE to watch the film, or click the "Watch My Film Now" button above.

Are there any Filmmaker/Special Guest Zooms?
If program includes an announced Zoom, ticket purchasers will be automatically registered to receive an email (from Zoom) one (1) hour prior to the start time with your access link and instructions to join by computer or phone. Only those with tickets to that film screening are invited to join. If you did not get the link to join within one (1) hour from the start time, please check your junk mail or spam folder for an email from SJCC Marketing or Zoom (subject “Virtual Cinema Zoom”) or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for help. Zooms are generally recorded and available after the program our SJCC Arts+Ideas Seattle Jewish Film Festival YouTube channel. So, if you miss the live Q&A, you can usually watch the recording later. Here are some helpful links to enjoy Zooms:

• Download our How to Zoom PDF
• Watch this Zoom tutorial
• Visit the Zoom Help Center for troubleshooting and additional video tutorials

Troubleshooting + Tech Tips

The following tips are meant to help acclimate customers to the SJFF Virtual Cinema streaming platform, chosen for ease of virtual film delivery. We are able to support issues with ticketing and streaming access but we cannot support individual device and Internet challenges. Please first try the troubleshooting steps mentioned in our FAQs, and if you still need help, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with details and your phone number. We will do our best to get back to patrons in 24-48 hours. Please identify the film and issue in the subject line. Don't panic!

What devices can I watch on?

• Computers: PC running Windows 7+ or Mac running OS 10.12+
• iPad or iPhone: Any iPad or iPhone using Safari on iOS 11.2 or later. Note: you must have "Screen Mirroring" turned OFF for content to play
• Android tablet or phone: Any tablet or phone using Chrome on Android 6.0 or later
• TV using an HDMI cable: Watch a quick video to learn how to connect your laptop to your TV this way to watch
• If you have Roku or Apple TV you can download the Elevent TV app. Once downloaded, enter your film's voucher code (sent in your Virtual Access email) to unlock and watch your VOD film through these devices. Watch this video from our friends at the Austin Jewish Film Festival.
• Using Chromecast: Select the cast button in the bottom right hand side of the player.
• Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge. We recommend using the latest version of your chosen browser.
• If you have private VPN network at home, you must turn it off or your video will not play.

Why does the film stall or not play smoothly? Bandwidth is often the culprit. If your Internet connection is poor or inconsistent, you may experience problems during playback. Before viewing, we recommend you close all competing apps/browsers/devices, and then launch a singular window/app for film viewing. Competing household users will slow Wi-Fi down too. Try moving closer to your router, try a different browser, or clear your browser cache. If you are getting slower speeds, try resetting your internet router or contacting your Internet provider's technical support.

Watch basics: Our friends at the Austin Jewish Film Festival are using the same virtual delivery platform (Elevent) and have created some great instructional videos on how to order a film and how to use the Elevent TV app (available on Roku and Apple TV devices). Click HERE to watch their video demonstrations and get answers to some frequently asked questions.

SJFF help:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.