What's Happening?
The third annual Borscht Belt Film Fest, presented by the Catskills Borscht Belt Museum, has unveiled its complete film lineup. The festival is scheduled to take place from November 6-8 at the Shadowland Stages in Ellenville, NY. This year's event will
showcase films that delve into the Borscht Belt resort era, spanning from the 1920s to the 1970s in the Catskills region. The programming emphasizes Jewish culture, Catskills history, comedy, and entertainment. Festival director Melody Gilbert stated that the lineup captures the enduring qualities of the Borscht Belt, including compelling stories, prominent personalities, comedy, nostalgia, and a strong sense of community. The festival aims to celebrate the past while demonstrating the continued relevance of this cultural heritage today. The event will feature filmmakers, special guests, and audiences gathering for a weekend of cinematic experiences and discussions.
Why It's Important?
This film festival is important for preserving and celebrating a significant period of American cultural history, particularly the unique Jewish-American experience in the Catskills. The Borscht Belt was a pivotal hub for entertainment, comedy, and community development, influencing American popular culture and serving as a launching pad for many iconic entertainers. By showcasing films that explore this era, the festival helps to educate new generations about its historical and cultural impact. It also provides a platform for filmmakers to tell stories that might otherwise be overlooked, contributing to a richer understanding of American identity and heritage. The event supports local tourism and cultural institutions in the Catskills, fostering economic activity and community engagement in the region.
What's Next?
The festival will commence on November 6 with a headline screening of “We Met at Grossinger’s” (2025), directed by Paula Eiselt, which revives the Grossinger’s Resort that inspired “Dirty Dancing.” Both 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. screenings will include talkbacks with members of the Grossinger family, with producer Robert Friedman joining after the earlier showing. The opening night will also feature a 5 p.m. reception at the Borscht Belt Museum, where Elaine Grossinger Etess will be posthumously honored with the festival’s first Legacy Award. November 7 will include screenings of four films and two short films, starting with “The Automat” (2021). The festival will conclude on November 8 with a second screening of “We Met at Grossinger’s,” followed by “Ringside in the Mountains” (2025) and “Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!” (2026).
Beyond the Headlines
The Borscht Belt Film Fest goes beyond mere entertainment by serving as a cultural anchor for the Catskills region. It highlights the often-underestimated role of Jewish communities in shaping American comedy, music, and leisure. The festival's focus on nostalgia and community reflects a broader societal interest in reconnecting with historical roots and understanding the evolution of American identity. By featuring films that explore both the celebratory and complex aspects of the Borscht Belt, such as the film about Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, it encourages a nuanced appreciation of cultural legacies. The event also underscores the power of film as a medium for historical documentation and cultural transmission, ensuring that the stories and personalities of this unique era continue to resonate with contemporary audiences.
