The 20th annual Louisville Jewish Film Festival strives to show the richness and diversity of the Jewish experience by presenting the best contemporary international films. Through feature films, shorts, documentaries and student films, as well as conversations with guest speakers, the festival explores Jewish identity with the hope of increasing tolerance and educating its audiences.

France (dubbed in English), 104 minutes

Sponsored by the Louisville Children’s Film Festival

Recommended for ages 8+ (Parental guidance: Threat of physical violence, tense moments, dubbed in English)

Winner of Films 4 Families Youth Jury Award at Seattle International Film Festival

This beautifully filmed story, based on a beloved children’s novel, portrays the unshakeable bond between an orphan boy and his dog. Sebastian, who lives with his grandfather near the French-Swiss border, befriends Belle who is suspected of killing livestock. When Nazis march into town looking for French Resistance leaders who are guiding Jewish refugees to safety, the boy and his dog lead the way to safety through the gorgeous but treacherous mountains.

Belle and Sebastian is an homage to the beloved live-action nature films of Disney, but with a pulse-pounding World War II subplot that will captivate audiences of all ages.