With ticket sales up 14 percent over last year, the just-concluded 31st annual San Francisco Jewish Film Festival was a big success, according to organizers.

The festival featured 58 films from 16 countries, and hosted more than 36 visiting filmmakers, artists, scholars and guest musicians.

“I was especially proud that even in a struggling economy, we found a way to put on a larger festival in five venues and to put on a first-class, fun, surprising

and intellectually stimulating set of programs,” said outgoing executive director Peter Stein.

One of the festival highlights was the appearance of actor Kirk Douglas, who received a standing ovation accepting the Freedom of Expression Award.

The 32nd festival will take place July 19 to Aug. 6, 2012. For information, visit www.sfjff.org or call (415) 621-0556.