Searching for Mr. Rugoff (94 minutes, English, no subtitles) reveals the untold story of the Jewish creative genius behind 1960s-’70s film distribution company Cinema 5.
Filmmakers, critics, collaborators and family members paint a vivid portrait of Donald Rugoff, a volatile, self-destructive and fearless champion of independent and art films. Drawing from a rich archive and colorful interviews, veteran distributor, producer, and former Rugoff employee Ira Deutchman brings us closer to his legendary and controversial mentor, who took risks and fought for great cinema while facing personal battles of his own.
The film will be screened in person in the Museum’s Edmond J. Safra Hall. Tickets are $5 each for Museum members or $10 each for the general public. If you’re not a member, join today. If you’re already a member, log in and the member discount will be reflected in your cart.
This screening is part of the film’s national theatrical release, which is being hosted by filmmaker Ira Deutchman as a benefit for the reopening of art houses around the country.
Proof of vaccination is required for all Museum visitors 12 and older.
Hosted in partnership with Senior Programming Consultant Nancy Collet, founder of Cinema Collet.
Public programming at the Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust is made possible, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, in partnership with the City Council; the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy C. Hochul and the New York State Legislature; a Humanities New York CARES Grant with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and the federal CARES Act; and other generous donors.
