It’s not exactly breaking news, but rather a seasonal forecast: Cinema Day is back. In fact, Israel now enjoys two or three such days each year, along with one international event where all movies — Israeli and international, including major Hollywood releases — are screened at every theater chain for just 10 shekels per ticket. This clearly isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime occasion anymore; it’s a recurring deal that’s become part of the calendar. But who’s complaining? It’s the viewers who benefit.
Now in its 11th year, the initiative by the Israeli Cinema Industry Association is a welcome effort to draw people — especially those for whom movie tickets might otherwise be out of reach — back into theaters, at a time when cinema is fighting for its survival. Admittedly, the price of popcorn hasn’t budged.
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From Bugonia, After the Hunt and One Battle After Another
(Photo: Courtesy of Tulip Entertainment, Forum Film)
And so, Thursday, Israel will mark International Cinema Day. Moviegoers will be able to watch a wide range of films, both foreign and Israeli, throughout the day. Participating theaters include all major chains: Planet, Cinema City, HOT Cinema, Movieland, Lev Cinemas, Rav Hen, the Tel Aviv Cinematheque and more.
In honor of the occasion, here are our recommendations for seven standout films to catch on this festive day:
One Battle After Another
The most hyped and prestigious film in the world right now — the one predicted to sweep the Oscars and finally land Paul Thomas Anderson a long-awaited statuette, while inflating Leonardo DiCaprio’s already legendary ego — is, at its core, a delightfully oddball action flick. Nearly three hours fly by in a haze of high-speed chases across American highways, as the dazed protagonist must sober up in time to save his daughter. Sean Penn shines as a chilling villain, as does the rest of the cast.
One Battle After Another - Trailer
(Courtesy of Tulip Entertainment)
Bugonia
If the word “weird” turns you off, this film isn’t for you. But for fans of bold, experimental cinema, it’s a must. Greek auteur Yorgos Lanthimos — known for “Dogtooth,” “The Favourite,” and “Poor Things” (which won Emma Stone her second Oscar) — teams up with Stone again in this remake of a cult Korean film. The plot centers on two conspiracy theorists (led by Jesse Plemons, a Lanthimos regular) who believe that Stone’s icy businesswoman character is actually an alien bent on destroying Earth — and decide to kidnap her. But maybe they’re right?
A necessary disclaimer: both Stone and Lanthimos were among the high-profile signatories of a recent celebrity boycott of Israel that sparked significant backlash. Whether that makes the film a must-avoid or a rebellious act of spite-watching — well, that’s your call.
Bugonia - Trailer
(Courtesy of Tulip Entertainment)
Frankenstein
Set to debut on Netflix next week, this is one of the last chances to see Guillermo del Toro’s highly anticipated adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic on the big screen — and for just 10 shekels. Visually, it’s worth ten times that. Less a horror flick and more a gothic romance (though there’s plenty of blood and grotesque imagery), the film focuses on the deep sorrow and epic tragedy between Dr. Frankenstein (Oscar Isaac, reliably excellent) and his monstrous creation (Jacob Elordi of “Euphoria,” on a clear path to Oscar gold). A must-see for fans of horror and historical drama alike.
Frankenstein - Trailer
(Courtesy of Lev Cinemas)
Roofman
In the mood for something lighter? This heist comedy — produced by and starring Channing Tatum — is based on a true story about a burglar who broke into McDonald’s branches by crawling through the roof, then went on the run and hid out in a Toys R Us. With neon visuals, a playful tone and a charming cast that includes Kirsten Dunst and Peter Dinklage, it’s a breezy crime tale that goes down easy.
Roofman - Trailer
(Courtesy of Lev Cinemas)
Amrum
A quieter gem among the louder releases, this German coming-of-age drama may seem at first glance like the ideal movie for retirees: a sweet boy in a picturesque German village at the end of World War II, grappling with life as the son of a Nazi family. But beyond the surface lies a clever, haunting portrait of how human evil can fester in the most idyllic settings. Directed by Fatih Akin — known for edgier fare like “Head-On” — this film marks a dramatic shift in tone, and the result is excellent.
Amrum - Trailer
(Courtesy of Lev Cinemas)
After the Hunt
Starring Julia Roberts and Andrew Garfield, this film tackles #MeToo and cancel culture in American academia — topics that have made it a punching bag for some critics. But it’s full of energy, sharp dialogue and provocations that actually work. Director Luca Guadagnino delivers a glossy, thought-provoking drama well worth watching — and debating afterward.
After the Hunt - Trailer
Good Fortune
And finally, a comedy. Stand-up comedian Aziz Ansari directs and stars in this Gen Z twist on It’s a Wonderful Life. Stuck in dead-end jobs and dating apps, the characters consider ending it all — until a literal angel, played by Keanu Reeves, intervenes. It may not be as clever as it thinks it is, but it’s genuinely sweet and has its heart in the right place.
Good Fortune
(Courtesy of Forum Film)