From the filmmaker of Oscar® finalist “The Cakemaker” comes a sensitive, visually vibrant melodrama about a Chicago-based Israeli swim coach who returns to Tel Aviv for his father’s funeral, only for his past and present to collide in matters of the heart and family. —M.G. In this intimate and moving relationship drama, compassionate swimming coach Eli returns from Chicago to his childhood home in Israel after receiving a call that his estranged father has died. Once there, he is reunited with his former close friend Yotam, now engaged to florist Iris. Soon after, a tragic accident disrupts each of their lives irreparably, with Eli and Iris finding solace in one another through their troubled family histories and in the shadow of Eli and Yotam’s deep connection. Told in several chapters and many surprising turns, AMERICA is a film about excavating the past when you can’t escape it and experiencing the enduring power of love in the face of life’s most traumatic obstacles. —C.F. GUEST(S) ARE SCHEDULED TO BE IN ATTENDANCE FOR Q&amp;A

America

From the filmmaker of Oscar® finalist “The Cakemaker” comes a sensitive, visually vibrant melodrama about a Chicago-based Israeli swim coach who returns to Tel Aviv for his father’s funeral, only for his past and present to collide in matters of the heart and family. —M.G.

International Narrative Competition

These films are centered around Jewish history, culture, and stories.