Israeli Films 'Where To?' and 'I Am New' Win Top Awards at 43rd Jerusalem Film Festival

The 43rd Jerusalem Film Festival reached its climax on Thursday with the announcement of the major winners across its competitions. The Israeli feature film "Where To?" directed by Asaf Machnes and starring Ihab Salami won the Hajaj Award for Best Israeli Feature. Produced by Haim Makelberg of Totem Productions, the film also earned Machnes the Anat Porat Award for Best Screenplay and Salami the Anat Porat Award for Best Actor. "Where To?" follows the journey of Hassan, a 55-year-old Palestinian-German Uber driver, and a lost young Israeli in Berlin, unfolding a tragicomic story about enduring love and the struggle to move on. The jury praised it as a "masterpiece of emotion and humanity," highlighting its clear and touching portrayal of what makes us human beyond personal beliefs and cultural conflicts. Salami's performance was described as "convincing, sensitive, and sincere," conveying deep emotional complexity even in silence.

In the Israeli documentary category, "I Am New," directed by Yael Avksis and produced by Shlomi Elkabetz and Galit Kahlon, won the top prize. The jury called it a "moving, patient, and humane film" depicting a family struggle that rises from deep fears to a great light.

The international competition jury, consisting of Angela Schanelec, Lionel Baier, and Nanako Tsukidate, awarded the German film "The Dreamy Adventure," directed by Valeska Grisebach, as the big winner. The jury commended its inspired direction and skillful handling of themes like borders, European identities, and interpersonal stories. The Best Actor award went to Karlis Arnolds Abots for his role in "Olia," a co-production from Latvia, Poland, Estonia, and Lithuania, recognized for his expressive use of movement and facial expression.

In the international debut film competition, the top prize was given to "17," directed by Kosara Mitic from North Macedonia, described as a "bare-knuckle, unapologetic film full of rage with skilled cinematography and outstanding acting." A special mention was awarded to "Panda," directed by Xinyang Zhang, a collaboration between Singapore, Hong Kong, and China.