Documentaries
İzmir Sephardic Women
Hand in Hand (2022)
In 2021 and 2022, the İzmir Jewish Community undertook a remarkable project to document the century-long contributions of Sephardic Jewish women in İzmir. The result was "İzmir Sephardic Women Hand in Hand," a compelling two-hour documentary produced as part of the EU-funded Despertar İzmir project.
Directed by Sarit Bonfil with Nuray İsrael as assistant director, the film brings to life the inspiring stories of 44 Sephardic Jewish women who played a crucial role in shaping their community. Through heartfelt interviews, historical insights, and archival materials, the documentary explores their tireless work in charitable organizations, education, social welfare, and cultural preservation.
These women dedicated themselves to strengthening their community and responding to challenges with resilience and solidarity. The documentary highlights the evolution of these organizations and the lasting impact of their efforts on both the Jewish and broader İzmir society.
With English subtitles, "İzmir Sephardic Women Hand in Hand" ensures that this powerful history reaches a wider audience, celebrating the strength, perseverance, and contributions of İzmir’s Sephardic women for generations to come.
Sephardic Music (2022)
Experience the enchanting world of Sephardic music through the captivating documentary "Sephardic Music," crafted by acclaimed Istanbul-based documentary filmmaker and musicologist, Ömür Şenol. This remarkable production, which premiered in April 2022, not only delves into the rich musical traditions of Istanbul but also features insights from esteemed musicians and researchers hailing from İzmir.
With a runtime of 50 minutes, "Sephardic Music" takes viewers on a mesmerising journey, exploring the melodies, rhythms, and stories behind the Sephardic musical heritage. Through interviews, performances, and expert analysis, this documentary unveils the vibrant cultural tapestry of Sephardic music, shedding light on its historical roots, influences, and contemporary significance.
For further information or inquiries, reach out to Ömür Şenol directly via email at omursenol@yandex.com. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Sephardic music and embark on a cultural voyage guided by the expertise of Ömür Şenol and the voices of talented musicians and researchers from İstanbul and İzmir.