Anti-Semitism, Activism, & Art: A Film Festival Turns 30

We celebrate the 30th anniversary of the St. Louis Jewish Film Festival, highlighting an impressive lineup of films from March 30th to April 8th at B&B Theaters in Creve Coeur. Hosts Arnold Stricker and Mark Langston discuss the festival with John Wilson, the Director of Cultural Arts at the Jewish Community Center of St. Louis, and Wendy Sachs, director of the documentary 'October 8th.' The discussion moves into the significance of the film, which addresses the surge of anti-Semitism following the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Wendy shares her personal journey and the challenges faced in creating the documentary, shedding light on the coordinated efforts behind the rise of anti-Semitism and the importance of education and awareness. John and Wendy emphasize the importance of using the festival and films like 'October 8' to educate the public, provoke meaningful conversations, and foster community engagement. The festival aims to provide a diverse cinematic experience that is both informative and entertaining, covering themes from historical to contemporary issues, comedy, and more.[00:00] Introduction to the St. Louis Jewish Film Festival[00:33] Meet the Hosts and Today's Special Guest[01:01] Return to Civility: A Thoughtful Reminder[02:14] Introducing John Wilson: Festival Director[02:57] Wendy Sachs: A Multi-Hyphenate Talent[04:41] The Making of 'October 8th': Wendy's Journey[07:05] Challenges in Hollywood: The Struggle for Distribution[11:27] The Coordinated Effort Behind Campus Activism[13:37] Festival Highlights and Thematic Films[18:56] Wendy Sachs on Selecting Documentary Participants[21:36] Exploring Modern Anti-Semitism[24:39] Introduction to the St. Louis Jewish Film Festival[25:51] Highlighting Key Films and Themes[30:13] Personal Reflections and Impact[35:18] Call to Action and Education[38:36] Conclusion and FarewellTakeaways: The St. Louis Jewish Film Festival is celebrating its 30th anniversary with an exciting lineup of films that promise to stir up some serious conversation. Wendy Sachs, director of the documentary 'October 8th', shares her journey creating a film that tackles the rise of antisemitism in America, sparked by recent events. John Wilson, the festival director, emphasizes the importance of community engagement through cinema, aiming for viewers to leave with new perspectives and a sense of connection. The film festival features a variety of films, from serious documentaries to light-hearted comedies, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy and discuss. October 8 | Official Website | March 14 2025Wendy SachsSt. Louis Jewish Film Festival - St. Louis JCCLinks referenced in this episode:stljewishfilmfestival.orgoctober8film.comjccstl.comdredscottlives.orgEpisode with Benjamin Ginsberg on The New Anti-Semitism: The Left, the Right, and the JewsThis is Season 8! For more episodes, go to