Israeli comedian Guri Alfi embarks on a journey to explore the profound impact of October 7 on the identity, security and status of Jews in the United States. Through intimate personal stories—from families of hostages and individuals confronting rising antisemitism to young Jews grappling with intergenerational divides on Israel—the film makes these complex issues accessible to a broader audience. It delves into key developments after October 7, including the isolation felt by many American Jews, the rise in hate crimes and the growing quest for renewed belonging within their communities. Guided by Guri Alfi’s signature mix of empathy and humor, the film masterfully balances deep emotional resonance with moments of levity, offering a message of hope in challenging times. This film serves as a sequel to the critically acclaimed 2021 TV miniseries The New Jew, which earned widespread praise in Israel and at film festivals across the United States.

GURI ALFI

Guri Alfi-Aharon, 49, is an Israeli actor, director, screenwriter, producer, stand-up comedian, voice actor, comedian and television host. In 2007, he appeared in Avi Nesher’s The Secrets, and in 2010, Eran Riklis’ The Human Resources Manager (for which he was nominated for an Ophir Award for Best Supporting Actor), both of which have been shown at the Festival. For 8 seasons starting in 2010, he regularly participated in the satire show The State of the Nation on Israel’s Channel 2. He also was the host for the 2021 The New Jew.

MOSHE SAMUELS

With an extensive experience as an emissary and educator in Israel and the United States, Samuels has served as the CEO of Shazur/Interwoven, a nonprofit organization established to connect Israelis with American Jewry and help bridge the gap between the two significant centers of the Jewish world today. Throughout his career, Moshe has traveled across the globe, leading workshops, staff training and seminars for diverse Jewish communities. The idea for The New Jew was inspired by the meaningful encounters he experienced during his travels, which have profoundly shaped his Jewish and Israeli identity.