From Dough to Dogs: The Making of “BABKA”

This class offers a unique chance to schmooze with the filmmakers and ask questions ahead of the film’s Boston premiere in the FreshFlix Short Film Competition at the Boston Jewish Film Festival, screening at the Brattle Theatre in Cambridge on Thursday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. Make sure to save room for some delicious chocolate babka!

Join filmmaker Serena Dykman, producer Julia McGill, and a guide dog team from the oldest guide dog school in the world, The Seeing Eye, for a behind-the-scenes look at the Humanitas Prize-nominated short film “BABKA” starring Saul Rubinek.

Like its namesake dessert—smothered in chocolate and layered with twists and turns—”BABKA” is a sweet and surprising story of connection: When a newly blind Hasidic baker must adapt to life with a guide dog in a community that doesn’t accept dogs, an unlikely friendship with a queer Catholic trainer changes both their lives.

Through conversation and a meet-and-greet, we’ll explore how “BABKA” blends faith, disability, and canine love with just the right balance of heart and Jewish humor. Participants will gain insight into turning lived experiences into storytelling, and learn about the vital role of guide dogs and their handlers (bonus: how to teach Yiddish to your dog).

Feel free to arrive as early as 5 p.m. to chat with Serena and The Seeing Eye team!