Neil Friedman is the quiet powerhouse behind some of the most important Jewish cinema of the last two decades. As founder of Menemsha Films and ChaiFlicks — the world's largest Jewish streaming platform — he's racked up five consecutive Oscar-nominated films, championed hidden gems from six continents, and turned Bad Shabbos into a $1.5 million theatrical juggernaut at a moment when nobody goes to the movies anymore.

Neil's story is one of Jewish ingenuity, resilience, and work ethic. **Special Promo to get an annual subscription to ChaiFlicks for only $36 for People Jew Wanna Know listeners!**Redemption link: http://www.chaiflicks.com/checkout/subscribe/purchase?code=people36&plan=yearly

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What We Discuss:

00:00 Intro & Episode Agenda

03:15 From Park Avenue lawyer to Hollywood independent

08:40 Why Jewish art house — and trusting his parents' taste

12:20 Launching ChaiFlicks the first week of the pandemic

17:10 Why *Bad Shabbos* worked when *Nobody Wants This* didn't

24:30 The Florida-to-New York release strategy

29:15 Films every young Jew should see

34:50 Israeli TV is the best in the world, pound for pound

38:20 Closing Remarks & Guest Nomination