The Jewish Federation of Madison is a proud sponsor of a series of Jewish films at the 2024 Wisconsin Film Festival.

Film: The Klezmer Project
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Following the film, at 7:40 pm, Yid Vicious Klezmer Ensemble will give a talkback.

Synopsis: At a wedding in Buenos Aires, videographer Leandro catches one of the musicians in his camera’s lens, and it’s love at first sight. Chatting Paloma up at the reception, Leandro pretends to share her passion for klezmer music, and it works beyond his expectations—soon, the two are not only coupled up but collaborating on a documentary about the disappearing genre. In pursuit of recording ancient melodies before they vanish, they traverse Eastern Europe, filming and bonding with folk musicians in Ukraine, Romania, and Moldova. Here The Klezmer Project itself subtly morphs into the promised documentary on klezmer, and we’re treated to numerous rich performances of traditional folk music. A playful blend of narrative and documentary forms—Leandro and Paloma are both characters and the film’s directors—The Klezmer Project combines the authentic beauty of ancient traditions with the bloom of love. “Unique and utterly captivating. Many different narrative threads weave together to form this thought-provoking, heartfelt, witty, and thoroughly enjoyable film. Each encounter is a gem of life experience, wisdom, and true beauty” (Senses of Cinema). (MK)

 

Presented with support from Jewish Federation of Madison and UW-Madison Mosse/Weinstein Center for Jewish Studies