The Mizel Arts and Culture Center proudly presents a landmark celebration in 2026 as the Denver Jewish Film Festival (DJFF) reaches its 30th anniversary. For three decades, the festival has showcased global Jewish storytelling, supported filmmakers, and brought thousands of community members together to experience the power of cinema. This year promises to be one of the most dynamic yet, blending tradition, fresh voices, international perspectives, and heartfelt community recognition.

A Powerful Opening Night: The Ring – Sponsored by the Strear Foundation and Gary and Marsha Blum

The festival opens with the moving Israeli drama The Ring, a multigenerational story that blends history, humor, and emotional discovery. When Arnon’s mother, a Holocaust survivor whose legendary gold ring once saved her and her newborn son, begins to decline, Arnon returns to Budapest in search of the artifact that changed their family’s destiny. Joined by his estranged daughter, the mission forces three generations to confront old pain, unearth hidden truths, and discover whether the ring can heal once more.
Based on the real family history of director Adir Miller, The Ring sets a profound and resonant tone for this milestone year.

Compelling Programming Continues Throughout the Festival

In classic DJFF fashion, the 2026 lineup features a rich mix of documentaries, narratives, comedies, dramas, and international voices. One standout is the gripping sports drama: Tatami.

This unprecedented co-directed collaboration between Iranian and Israeli filmmakers follows Leila, an Iranian judoka, competing for gold at the World Judo Championships. When the regime orders her to throw the match, she must choose between obedience and integrity, risking everything for a chance at a different kind of victory. Tatami is a high-stakes, riveting examination of courage in the face of political and personal pressure, and a highlight of this year’s program.

Looking for a comedy or a date night option?

Join us on Thursday the 29th for date night with a screening of the film “31 Candles” 31 Candles is a warm, quirky rom-com about Leo Kadner, a 30-something New Yorker who, after bumping into his childhood summer-camp crush, decides to finally get a Bar Mitzvah at age 31. As Leo navigates exes, “situationships,” family pressures, and the expectations of adulthood, the film becomes less about winning love and more about growing into himself and rediscovering what truly matters. Childcare is available for an additional fee, making it the perfect worry-free date night. 

Closing Day and Night: Celebration all around!

The Denver Jewish Film Festival will close with a dynamic final day featuring a curated shorts package and a fabulous LGBTQ+ Brunch. The celebration continues with special screenings of Janis Ian: Breaking Silence and Diane Warren: Relentless, during which we will also honor the life and legacy of longtime DJFF champion Michael Rudnick. The festival concludes with one of its most anticipated films, Matchmaking 2, the sequel to the audience favorite that delighted Denver during the 2023 season.

The original film charmed attendees with its fresh and funny exploration of dating in the Orthodox Jewish world, and this new chapter promises even more warmth, laughter, and relatable romance. Closing night is sure to bring audiences together in collective celebration as the festival ends on a high, joyous note.

We will be closing out the evening with honoring longtime Film Selection Committee member and champion Mark Boscoe. For 15+ years, Mark has shaped the festival through countless hours of dedication by viewing submissions, selecting films, guiding discussions, and helping build the reputation and programming excellence the Denver Jewish Film Festival is known for today.

His contributions are, quite literally, too numerous to count, and this year’s festival proudly shines a spotlight on his commitment, leadership, and love for Jewish storytelling. Mark and Krista Boscoe have also generously sponsored the Closing Night film and events. As the Denver Jewish Film Festival enters its fourth decade, it does so with gratitude, for its artists, its audiences, and community members like Mark Boscoe who have made the festival a cultural cornerstone. This milestone year honors the past while forging boldly into the future, continuing the mission of elevating Jewish voices and connecting people through the cinematic stories that move, entertain, and inspire.

Join us on closing night to raise a glass to celebrate not only our successful 30 years but to also look ahead to DJFF’s future!