Jerusalem Film Festival 2026 Announces Winners: Three Awards Go to “Where To?”
The Jerusalem Film Festival has announced the winners of its top honors in the 2026 competition. The Haggiag Award for Best Israeli Feature Film went to “Where To?”, directed by Asaf Mahnes. The film follows a 55-year-old “Palestinian”-German taxi driver and a young Israeli whose lives unexpectedly intersect on the streets of Berlin. Mahnes also received the Anat Pirchi Award for Best Screenplay, while Ihab Salami was honored with the Best Actor award.
In the Israeli documentary competition, the top prize was awarded to “I Am Neo”, directed by Yael Abecassis. Produced by Shlomi Elkabetz and Galit Kahlon, the 55-minute documentary chronicles the long rehabilitation of a young boy named Neo following a devastating car accident. As he recovers, Neo must relearn basic abilities, including breathing, speaking, and walking.
In the international competition, the Nechama Rivlin Award for Best International Film went to the German feature “Fairytale Adventure”, directed by Valeska Grisebach. The film explores themes of borders, European identity, and human connection. The GWFF Award for Best International Debut was presented to “17”, directed by North Macedonian filmmaker Kosara Mitić. The film examines the cycle of violence and its impact on society.
