Coming-of-Age Comedy 'Ethan Bloom' Premieres in Central Florida

Heartwarming film explores faith, family, and finding your own path.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:00am

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An abstract close-up of shimmering sequins and shattered glass, conveying the glamour and energy of a coming-of-age story.The vibrant visuals of 'Ethan Bloom' capture the film's heartfelt exploration of faith, family, and self-discovery.The Villages Today

The new coming-of-age comedy film 'Ethan Bloom' follows a 13-year-old boy preparing for his bar mitzvah who secretly finds comfort in a Catholic church, with an unexpected priest as his guide. The film, born from the personal experiences of its Jewish-Catholic creators, explores themes of grief, honesty, and discovering one's own identity.

Why it matters

As a heartfelt story about navigating different faiths and cultures, 'Ethan Bloom' offers a relatable and humorous perspective on the complexities of growing up with multiple identities. The film's premiere in Central Florida provides local audiences a chance to engage with this timely narrative.

The details

In 'Ethan Bloom,' the title character, played by newcomer Hank Greenspan, is a 13-year-old boy preparing for his bar mitzvah. However, he secretly finds solace in a Catholic church, where he forms an unlikely bond with Father Diaz, portrayed by Carlos Ponce. The film explores Ethan's relationships with his loving but complicated father (Joshua Malina), an unconventional rabbi (Rachel Lefevre), and a first crush (Caroline Valencia) as he navigates the path to adulthood.

  • The film will premiere on April 1, 2026 in Central Florida.
  • It will be shown at Regal Winter Park, Epic Theaters in Lee Vista, AMC Classic New Smyrna 12, and Old Mill Playhouse Epic Theatres of The Villages.

The players

Ethan Bloom

The 13-year-old protagonist of the film, played by newcomer Hank Greenspan, who secretly finds comfort in a Catholic church while preparing for his bar mitzvah.

Father Diaz

The unexpected guide and confidant to Ethan, played by actor Carlos Ponce.

Maylen Dominguez

The writer and co-producer of the film, who drew from her own experiences of converting to Judaism when she married her husband.

Herschel Faber

The director and co-producer of the film, who grew up in a Jewish family in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, navigating the complexities of his mother's conversion from Christianity.

Menemsha Films

The distribution company known for championing beloved Jewish-themed cinema, which will present 'Ethan Bloom' in Central Florida.

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What they’re saying

“I fell in love with the way Judaism encourages questions and discussion when it comes to faith, and with the beauty of Shabbat.”

— Maylen Dominguez, Writer and co-producer

“A line in the film - that Shabbat is 'a sanctuary in time' - is one I hold close.”

— Maylen Dominguez, Writer and co-producer

What’s next

The filmmakers will appear for select Q&A screenings, giving audiences a chance to hear how this charming Miami-made story came to life. For Q&A showtimes, visit menemshafilms.com/ethan-bloom.

The takeaway

As a heartwarming exploration of faith, family, and identity, 'Ethan Bloom' offers a unique perspective on the complexities of growing up with multiple cultural influences. The film's premiere in Central Florida provides local audiences an opportunity to engage with this timely and relatable narrative.