Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is American Jewish Committee (AJC), and why does it produce AJFF?
A: It starts with the AJC’s mission which, as an international advocacy organization, is to build bridges of understanding with ethnic, religious, national and international leadership. We believe that stories told on film are one of the best ways to share experiences, so we look at the film festival as an important tool for effective dialogue. Through AJFF, we’ve turned a multimedia experience into bridge building.
Q: Why does the festival always seem so crowded? And what are the guidelines for saving seats?
A: Yes, you might say the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival has become a victim of its own success. We are thrilled to see the large, energetic crowds in the theater lobby and auditoriums. We love our audience, and work tirelessly to minimize inconvenience. We ask for your cooperation in making the festival a civilized experience for all. Please abide by ticketing policies, and follow the instructions of our volunteer ushers. Just like at a regular outing at the movies, saving seats for a few friends and family is fine. More than that is discourteous and strongly discouraged. Do not save seats for latecomers. Any empty seats will be released to a wait list at show time. Arrive early, keep a good sense of humor, and enjoy the show!
Q: I am amazed at the number of outstanding films with Jewish themes. How do you determine which films to pick, and what qualifies as a Jewish film?
A: The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival seeks to surprise and inspire with a highly varied film line-up, focusing not only on the obvious aspects of Jewish life, but on the new, the undiscovered, and the unfamiliar. While some films speak directly to important issues of Jewish identity, history and culture, others reflect a more subtle, quintessential Jewish quality. Each year a committee carefully pre-screens some 400 entries, evaluating both Jewish content and artistic quality. At the end of the process, only the best of the best make the final cut.
Q: Why are these films not rated? Are there any suitable films for the whole family?
A: As most films at the festival are new, international or independently released, they have not been rated by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). Parents are urged to carefully read the film descriptions provided, and use their discretion in determining content and age appropriateness. While AJFF films tend to tackle more adult themes, there are exceptions. Anita, Eli & Ben, and The Yankles are suitable for teenagers. And many of the documentaries, such as Against the Tide, Off and Running, War Against the Weak and In Search of Memory offer invaluable educational experiences to students. Your best bet is to read the film synopses and decide what’s suitable for your family.
Q: Why don’t you show movies on Friday night and Saturday? That seems like prime film viewing time.
A: The obvious answer is, of course, the Sabbath. Different Jewish film festivals have different policies about this. But out of respect for the entire Jewish community, AJFF doesn’t screen anything between Friday night and sundown on Saturday. Plus, our staff needs some rest too! Our Saturday night films typically start 20-30 minutes after sundown. Though the timing is tight with the end of Shabbat, it would be impossible to offer multiple screenings on a Saturday night if we didn’t start as early as we did.
Q: The subtitles are a little hard to read. Can’t you make them clearer?
A: Short answer: No. Long answer: Sadly, we don’t have any control over the subtitles for these films. In most cases, the filmmakers’ budgets are too tight to accomodate better subtitles.
Q: I missed a movie, or it was sold out. Will you show the popular films again? Where can I buy a copy?
A: We try to repeat as many of the popular films as is possible, so check the listings for dates, times and venues. If you miss a film at the festival, rest assured it will likely eventually be released on DVD (check online movie stores such as Netflix or Blockbuster for availability). Many AJFF films go on to a theatrical release. As for buying a copy from us, we don’t own the rights to the films, so we’re not allowed to sell them.
Q: I love the festival and want to see it grow. When will you add more days and venues?
A: The 2010 AJFF is a record-breaker. More than 50 films representing 20 countries will be presented across 12 days and 3 venues. The festival is pleased to offer 76 individual screenings, more than ever before. In response to audience demand, plans are already in the works for further expansion in 2011. Our primary goal remains a first-rate film festival experience for patrons. As we celebrate our 10th Annual milestone, we look forward to growing with you for years to come.
Q: How can I get involved and sign up as a volunteer?
A: We have a tremendous corps of committed and talented people who lend their time and expertise to everything from fundraising, marketing, film selection and event planning to ushering and hospitality. If you are interested in helping with the festival, just let us know! Check the appropriate box on your audience survey form, visit our website at www.ajff.org, or email us at info@ajff.org. You can also support the festival financially by joining the more than 160 corporate and individual sponsors. For information on that, contact Staci Brill at sbrill@ajff.org.
Q: What's the pricing information for tickets?
A:We have a number of pricing tiers as well as discounts and special programs. You can check out our full list of options below:
General Admission: $10.00
Seniors (65 or older): $9.00
Students (with valid student ID): $9.00
Matinee (Mon. - Thu. through 4pm): $8.00
Multi-Ticket Discount
Groups interested in purchasing 15 or more tickets to an individual film, please contact the AJFF Box Office directly at info@ajff.org or 404.806.9913 for details.
Red Carpet VIP - $250 per person
A special Red Carpet VIP Ticket is available for $250, and includes the AJFF 2010 Gala Concert on January 4th, 2010, a pre-concert cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception, concert seating, and one ticket to AJFF Opening Night film program on Wednesday, January 13, 2010. To purchase Red Carpet VIP tickets, please contact the AJFF Box Office at info@ajff.org or 404.806.9913 for more information.
All Other Concert Tickets - $18-$75
Includes concert only. Prices subject to change. All ticket orders for the AJFF Gala Concert are subject to a fee of $3.95 per concert ticket, plus any fees based upon desired ticket delivery method.
Opening Night General Admission - $36
Includes film and dessert reception.
'Scene & Be Seen' Young Adults Night - $18
Includes 'Scene & Be Seen' party and film.
Closing Night - $18
Includes film and dessert reception
