SDIJFF Virtual

Once Upon My Mother | OPENING NIGHT FILM

Available in 87d 04h 36m 13s
Available February 5, 2026 8:05 AM UTC
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Protected ContentThis content can only be viewed in authorized regions: Greater San Diego County, CA.
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Director Ken Scott (Starbuck) delivers a big-hearted, colorful, and witty film based on a true story, celebrating the unparalleled love between a mother and her child. Leila Bekhti (Paris, je t’aime) shines as Esther, a larger-than-life Moroccan-Jewish mother who refuses to take no for an answer. When her youngest son, Roland, is born with a club foot in 1963 and told he will never walk, Esther dedicates the next forty years to ensuring he not only walks but thrives. Featuring a vibrant soundtrack of French classics by Sylvie Vartan, this touching and humorous tribute captures a mother’s fierce devotion in all its endearing—and infuriating—glory.

  • Year
    Canada
  • Runtime
    102 minutes
  • Language
    French
  • Country
    France, Canada
  • Premiere
    San Diego
  • Genre
    Drama, Sephardic, Biopic
  • Subtitle Language
    English
  • Awards
    Audience Choice Award, 2025 Toronto Jewish Film Festival
  • Director
    Ken Scott
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