Atlanta Jewish Film Festival screenings highlight courage, strength

The latest: The festival runs Feb. 18 through March 3, with screenings across metro Atlanta.

• If you can't attend in person, there will be an opportunity to stream certain films March 6-15 through the AJFF's Virtual Cinema.

Zoom in: This year's festival will include 49 feature-length movies and 16 short films from 20 countries.

• AJFF said its audiences will be treated to three world premieres, 11 North American and U.S. premieres, and several regional debuts.
• The festival will serve as the North American premiere of "Stay Forte," which is based on the true story of three hostages who escape their captors after being taken in the Oct. 7 attacks by Hamas.
• Its two screenings — 7pm Feb. 23 and 1:45pm Feb. 24 — will be followed by guest speakers and a question-and-answer session.
• Nancy Spielberg, producer of "A Letter to David," will host a discussion following a screening of the film at 7pm Feb. 25 at Tara Theatre.

What they're saying: "The response to this year's lineup has been incredibly energizing," Kenny Blank, executive and artistic director of the festival, said in a statement.

• "As we celebrate our 26th year and launch a full season of programming, we're excited to welcome audiences back into theaters for films that spark conversation, deepen understanding, and create connection," Blank added.

State of play: Along with movie screenings, AJFF's In Conversation series also returns this year, featuring free in-person sessions that will discuss themes raised in films.

• Each session will be held at CityBar in Sandy Springs. You can also watch via Zoom.
• Attendees will also get a glimpse into the making of "The Day After," which follows Palestinians and Israelis who travel to Northern Ireland to learn how peace was established in that country.
• The film, directed by Yuval Orr and Aziz Abu Sarah, was created in partnership with Jewish Story Partners.
• It's also the first recipient of the Atlanta Jewish Film's Filmmaker Fund, which provides guidance, financial resources and mentorship for filmmakers.

Go: Visit the AJFF's website to learn more about the films and to purchase tickets.