The 36th Israel Film Festival In Los Angeles Hosted Sold-Out Opening Night Gala
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Actress/Producer Gal Gadot Presented Ynon Kreiz, Mattel Chairman And Ceo, With The 2024 Iff Industry Leadership Award
After 2 ½ years of delays, the 36thISRAEL FILM FESTIVAL in Los Angeles finally took place. The delays were due to the pandemic and the on-going war. It is the largest showcase of Israeli films in the United States. The festival held its sold-out Gala Opening Night at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills on November 13th, 2024.
Among those joining IFF Festival founder/executive director Meir Fenigstein were Ynon Kreiz, Mattel Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Actress/producer Gal Gadot presented him with the 2024 IFF Industry Leadership Award. In attendance were Israel Bachar, Consul General of Israel in Los Angeles. Writer/director Tom Nesher was also there. The film Come Closer is Israel’s Academy Award submission for Best International Film. It had its West Coast Premiere at the Festival event. Fifteen visiting Israeli filmmakers and actors who have movies in the Festival also joined the celebration.
Kreiz noted to the audience that he fondly recalled being an Israel Film Festival volunteer 31 years ago. This was in Los Angeles while he was studying at UCLA. Gadot, when presenting her friend Kreiz with his award, said “We both champion this festival. It champions bold voices and breaks barriers through the power of storytelling. It is why, amidst the chaos in our world, this week we celebrate the enduring, unstoppable Israeli creativity. And why tonight, we celebrate a man who understands every story’s potential to transport, transform and transcend.”
Fenigstein welcomed the audience. He noted, “We are proud to present during this year’s Festival more than 40 new feature films. We also have thought-provoking documentaries and our new initiative of a student short film competition. We are committed to fulfilling our promise to our generous sponsors and our community partners. We also promise our dedication to the beloved filmmakers and their great films. Additionally, we promise to our wonderful audiences to bring Israeli culture and cinema to Hollywood. Hollywood has, and will always stand with, the creative community of Israel.”
The ISRAEL FILM FESTIVAL screenings are taking place through November 26th. They will show at the Laemmle Royal Theatre (West Los Angeles) and the Laemmle Town Center 5 (Encino). For further information on all the films, visit:www.israelfilmfestival.com. You can also purchase tickets for all screenings. Additionally, participate in Q&As with the attending Israeli filmmakers.
Connect with the 36th ISRAEL FILM FESTIVAL on Facebook (The Israel Film Festival). Follow on Instagram @IsraelFilmFestival and Twitter @IsraelFilmFest for festival news and highlights. Join the conversation with #IsraelFilmFestival.
