TJFF2026’s Artist in Residence, Israeli-Belgian cartoonist Michel Kichka presents a special screening of Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning film. For those who admired it—and those who have long been skeptical—this is a chance to revisit Life is Beautiful with fresh eyes. Blending comedy and tragedy, the story follows Guido, a father who uses imagination and humor to protect his young son from the horrors of a Nazi concentration camp. Upon its release, the film sparked both acclaim and debate about its daring tonal approach. Seeing it again today invites a thoughtful reassessment of Benigni’s much-discussed film, often compared to Jerry Lewis’ uncompleted The Day the Clown Cried.

Part of the series, Artist in Residence: Michel Kichka