The film created a huge buzz at Cannes. Few people realize that Natalie Portman is Jewish and that she was born in Jerusalem.
It gives them an incentive to market the film aggressively to their constituents. Then they can use the festival not only as a promotional opportunity, but as a fundraising opportunity as well. Generating an audience has always been very difficult for film festivals, but this formula has been very successful. Generally, most of the screenings are sold out.
Picture Quotes to Inspire and Delight