10/11 6:30 Q&A filmmakers Ethan Fuirst and Sophie Parens with Festival Curator Bruni Burres, with reception

We are inspired to introduce you to two award-winning young filmmakers and their remarkably sophisticated, appealing work. With insight, humor, and preternatural skill, Parens and Fuirst shine new light on the Jewish experience. Both grew up in Westchester—and both are already going places. Come to this exciting program, and you’ll get to brag that you knew them way back when!

Program length: approx. 90 m.

The Victorias
At NYC’s Tenement Museum, a diverse group of costumed interpreters took turns performing as 14-year-old Sephardic immigrant Victoria Confino in 1916. After being laid off during the pandemic, the “Vickies” reflect on the experience of telling another’s story. Filmmaker Ethan Fuirst’s quirky short packs a surprising emotional punch.
2022. 15 m. Ethan Fuirst. US. English. NR.

Zaida
Sophie Parens tells the story of her grandfather Henri Parens, who escaped the Holocaust at the age of 12 and went on to become a globally recognized psychoanalyst dedicated to the prevention of prejudice. Sophie was moved to make this film in the wake of the 2017 Charlottesville riot.
2020. 32 m. Sophie Parens. US. English. NR.