People who are truly passionate about movies understand them better than the rest of us. They know that each movie is special, that behind each film is someone’s vision or dream or message. And they know that each film is trying to tell us something, if only we’d stop and listen to it. But whether you’re a movie enthusiast or just someone looking for a memorable Atlanta event, don’t miss the 11th annual Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. From Feb. 8 through Feb. 27, audiences will be treated to messages and stories from all walks of life.

Anyone familiar with the AJFF knows that it is Atlanta’s largest film festival. But now the festival has doubled in size, encompassing twenty days and six venues, and is poised to become the largest Jewish film festival in the United States. AJFF veterans will also be delighted to know that for the first time ever, the festival is bringing two Jewish classics back to the big screen: “An American Tail” and “Chariots of Fire.”

This year marks the 25th anniversary of “An American Tail”, a heartwarming story of Russian-Jewish mice fleeing persecution in pursuit of the American dream. The Mousekewitz family hopes to reach the New World, but tragedy strikes when their youngest son Fievel becomes lost. Adults and children alike can enjoy watching Fievel’s search for his family and a place to finally call home. And to celebrate this amazing movie, the AJFF is bringing in the directors and producers for live Q & A sessions after select screenings.

“Chariots of Fire” is based on a true story and tells the tale of rival track heroes who compete for very different reasons during the 1924 Olympics in Paris. The internationally-acclaimed drama won several Oscars in 1981 including Best Picture, Costume Design, Writing and Original Score. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of this monumental film the AJFF has invited the director, Hugh Hudson, to speak at select screenings.

The aforementioned movies are just two of more than 60 films that will be presented during the festival. Films from almost every genre will be represented at the event, and all of them are sure to provide plenty for audiences to contemplate and discuss.

Looking for a special date night? On Feb 14, romances like “Bride Flight” and “The Names of Love” are perfect for making this Valentine’s Day a memorable one.

And students who are out of school on Feb. 21 for President’s Day should not miss family-friendly films like “The Diary of Anne Frank” and “Voices Unbound: The Story of the Freedom Writers.”