UPDATE: The Jewish International Film Festival in Malmö, Sweden, has been abruptly postponed due to safety concerns, with organizers revealing that local cinemas refused to screen the films. Originally scheduled from November 29 to December 2, this year’s festival aimed to honor 250 years of Jewish life in Sweden.
Organizers announced the shocking news via a statement on the festival’s website, expressing their frustration after being “stonewalled” by all commercial and art-house cinemas in the city. They emphasized the decision to pause the festival to “gather strength” before seeking new venues.
Ola Tedin, a key organizer, told Swedish broadcaster SVT that cinema operators cited safety as a primary concern, fearing potential threats to their staff and audiences. “We were met with reluctance and fear,” Tedin explained, highlighting the emotional toll on those involved in organizing the event.
In a Saturday statement, cinema chain Filmstaden confirmed that their decision to withdraw from hosting the festival was made last spring. “After thorough assessment, we concluded that we could not host the festival due to safety concerns,” the statement read. “Our priority is always to ensure a safe and positive experience for both our guests and employees.”
The festival, founded just last year, had anticipated a vibrant celebration of Jewish culture, but now faces an uncertain future. Other cinemas and the Swedish minister of culture did not respond to inquiries about the situation.
The festival’s postponement comes amid rising tensions in Sweden regarding public safety, impacting the cultural landscape. Supporters of the festival have shared “heartwarming” messages of solidarity, showcasing the community’s commitment to celebrating Jewish heritage.
As the situation develops, organizers are exploring alternative venues for the festival. The community continues to express its determination to overcome these challenges and ensure that the festival can move forward.
Stay tuned for updates as the Jewish International Film Festival navigates this unexpected setback and strives to find a path forward.