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Sapiro v. Ford: The Jew Who Sued Henry Ford

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Director and Editor, Gaylen Ross
Producers Carol King, Gaylen Ross, Lyn Kupferman

Originating director Michael Rose (1952-2020)
Michael Rose Productions

Sapiro v. Ford tells the riveting true story of Aaron Sapiro, a young Jewish lawyer who took on one of America’s most powerful men—and most notorious antisemite—Henry Ford. In the 1920s, as Ford’s anti-Jewish publications incited hatred across the nation, Sapiro filed an unprecedented libel suit, challenging the limits of hate speech long before such laws existed.

From his humble beginnings in San Francisco to leading a nationwide movement empowering farmers, Sapiro’s life was a testament to courage, vision, and justice. Portrayed by actor Ben Shenkman, Sapiro’s words are presented in their entirety, filmed as if speaking directly to a modern audience. At the same time, historical experts illuminate the stakes of his confrontation with Ford.

In a David-versus-Goliath showdown, Sapiro forced the industrial titan to back down, issue an apology, and shutter his hate-filled newspaper, leaving a legacy that resonates today. As antisemitism rises and the struggle to balance free speech with protection against hate continues, Sapiro v. Ford examines the enduring question: how can societies confront power, prejudice, and propaganda while upholding justice? 

SCREENINGS

Miami Jewish Film Festival Jan 18, 2026

New York Jewish Film Festival Jan 21 and 28

Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival Jan 29 and Feb 5

Atlanta Jewish Film Festival Feb 28

Cornell University Law School March 23

Boca International Jewish Film Festival March 13

Jacob Burns Center Jewish Film Festival (Westchester) March 26 and April 3

Touro Law Center April 15

Long Island Jewish Film Festival April 16 and April 1

Ann Arbor Jewish Film Festival May 4

Philadelphia Jewish Film Festival May 5

DC: JXJ Music and Film Festival (Washington DC) May 12 and May 13

Los Angeles Jewish Film Festival (Museum of Tolerance) May 17

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