World premiere of a new documentary by Isaac Artenstein. Bob Moore of El Paso Matters will conduct a Q&A with the filmmaker after the screening.

The Plaza Classic Film Festival hosts the world premiere of the fifth chapter in writer-director Isaac Artenstein’s documentaries on the Jewish experience along the U.S.-Mexico border. Focusing on El Paso’s Jewish community, People of the Crossing explores the unique story of local Jewish culture, from its 19th century pioneers to its multicultural congregations. Using interviews, historic photographs and other sources, Artenstein stitches together the story of the community’s history, customs, culture, and sizable impact on the region. Among those interviewed are researcher Susan Novick, Temple Mount Sinai rabbi Ben Zeidman, B’Nai Zion President Felicia Rubin, artist Hal Marcus, former city council member Peter Svarzbein, and siblings Stuart Schwartz and Lee Schwartz, whose family started The Popular department store. Bob Moore of El Paso Matters will conduct a Q&A with Artenstein after the screening, with a public reception immediately after in the Foundation Room. — Doug Pullen

Rated: NR