Closing Event
The 24th Cinema South International Film Festival
Israeli Premiere: Accidental Happiness
In the presence of the filmmaker Lina Chaplin, Crew and Participants
Thursday | 13.11.2025 | 19:00 | Sderot Cinematheque
Israel | 2025 | 60 Min. | Hebrew | Hebrew & English Sub | Documentary
Where Crisis Blooms, So Do Films. Happy protagonists are rare in cinema. We found them. In 2024, Israel launched a unique initiative: Service Year for Adults. Over 800 retirees applied to take part in this unconventional adventure. While 18-year-olds traditionally embark on a service year, these participants - long past high school - are entering a new chapter. The first cohort heads to the Gaza border region, operating clinics, maintaining public spaces, and building petting zoos. They feel renewed; the unknown excites them. A collective spirit and sense of purpose bring comfort and joy. We’re following a group of truly happy people - what does that look like on screen? A documentary that tries to capture happiness.
Production: Daniela Reiss | Script: Lina Chaplin, Bracha Zisman Cohen | Cinematography: Itzik Portal | Editing: Bracha Zisman Cohen | Art Design: Aharon Peer | Sound Design: Rotem Dror | Original Score: Didi Erez | Supporting Funds: HOT 8
Program
19:00
Gala Reception
20:00
Closing Ceremony & Farewell to Sderot Cinematheque CEO Benny Cohen
Announcement of the winners of the Yahav Wiener Debut Film Awards
Closing Film Screening: Accidental Happiness
