The Cinematheque sees itself as a leading platform for the promotion of local cinema. At its heart lies the Israel Film Archive, which works to collect, preserve, and showcase local cinematic creations from the beginning of Israeli cinema till contemporary works. The Cinematheque screens new Israeli films, classics, unknown works, and is a unique stage for these films and filmmakers.

In 1984, Lia van Leer established the Jerusalem International Film Festival. Since then this event has become the most prestigious and important film event in Israel. The Festival, which takes place in July, showcases the best films from around the world from the past year and is an esteemed platform for Israeli cinema, exposing local film work to leading professionals from around the world and granting generous prizes for Israeli cinema.

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