Events

Director: Paula Eiselt
Run Time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Language: English 

A nostalgic journey through the rise and fall of a legendary Catskills resort becomes a vivid portrait of how a hillside haven grew into a sanctuary and proving ground for American Jewish life.

Founded in the late 1910s by Austrian Jewish immigrants shut out of mainstream vacation culture, Grossinger’s became the crown jewel of the Borscht Belt – an all-inclusive escape where Jewish identity thrived openly, without apology. More than a resort, it was a world unto itself. At its heart was Jennie Grossinger, the formidable matriarch who transformed a humble boarding house into an iconic institution. A trailblazer in hospitality, Jennie welcomed everyone, from Eleanor Roosevelt and Jackie Robinson to Hollywood stars and future comedy legends, advancing inclusion, women’s leadership, and cultural influence decades ahead of her time.

Luminous archival footage and affectionate interviews with family descendants, former staff, devoted guests, historians, and cultural figures including Judy Gold, Joel Grey, and Jackie Hoffman bring the heyday roaring back to life – Catskills nights buzzing with laughter, ardor ignited, and careers launched, where overflowing kosher tables mattered as much as the shows, swims, and swinging dance floor. From immigration and postwar optimism to assimilation and gradual decline driven by changing travel habits and lifestyles, this communal dram reflects the arc of a changing America.

Celebratory and deeply human, this lovingly crafted time capsule restores Grossinger’s to its rightful place, where the mountains were alive with possibility...and the proof that belonging, once found, truly never wanes.

Lights, Camera, Conversation

Join us after the credits roll for Lights, Camera, Conversation – a welcoming space for movie-lovers to reflect, share perspectives and dive deeper into the themes, characters and emotions sparked by the film. Whether you're a casual viewer or a cinema enthusiast, this is your chance to connect, process, and keep the story going.

All films will be shown at the Cranford Theater, 25 North Avenue W in Cranford

Ticket Price
At the Door: $18
Advance Purchase: $18, Member Advance Ticket Price: $15.30
Series: $85, Member Series Price: $63.75

Early Bird Series Discount - Purchase tickets by 9/15
Price: $80, Member Price: $60

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This program was made possible by a grant from the Malvin and Greta Roesch Film Festival Endowment Fund of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest NJ.