Growing Pains: Coming-of-Age Stories

Date: Friday, July 12th

Venue: Fort Greene Park

Address: Myrtle Ave & N Portland Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205

7 PM: Seating Opens

8:45 PM: Films Begin

10 PM: Q&A with Filmmakers

Growing Pains: Coming-of-Age Stories

Adulthood is hard, but getting there can be even harder. This genre-spanning program showcases stories as deep and varied as adolescence itself. Whether saddling up for a rodeo competition, encountering ghosts in a new country, or racing around the city, these films feature familiar and fascinating stories about the challenges of growing up—and the resilience of those who do it. Come celebrate youth through all its complications, in the city and beyond. Presented in partnership with the Fort Greene Park Conservancy and New York City Council Member Crystal Hudson.

THE FILMS

Closing Dynasty

Lloyd Lee Choi | 16 mins

On a school day, seven-year-old Queenie hustles and schemes ways to make money on the streets of New York City.

Cowgirl

Chase Musslewhite | 15 mins

EBONY

Sean-Josahi Brown | US | 20 mins

Filmed over two years, Ebony, a single mom raising six kids in a transitional housing program in Brownsville, Brooklyn, aims to create a better life for her children by moving them into permanent housing. This sensitive narrative playfully blends Ebony's story with footage taken by her children. Their cinematography composes the essence of their day-to-day life, from mundane chores to hard fought moments of dancing and joy. A story of optimism shines from the most unlikely place.

Homing

Ricardo Javier Varona | US | 15 mins

In a rapidly gentrifying Brooklyn neighborhood, a reclusive pigeon keeper is tasked with caring for his estranged daughter for a day, but is blindsided by a revelation that could mean losing her for good.

The Old Young Crow

Liam LoPinto| Japan, US | 12 mins

In the twilight of his life, Mehrdad, now an elderly man, reminisces about his transformative journey from Iran to Japan, a poignant odyssey that began in the wake of his mother's passing when he was just a young boy. His narrative unfolds around a heartwarming encounter with an elderly Japanese woman, forged amidst the hushed serenity of a graveyard and facilitated by the pages of his cherished sketchbook.

Practice Space

Dan Perlman | US| 11 mins

Close friends Edwin and Steven advise each other on dating and drama — based on zero experience — while seeking a spot to hang after school.

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RSVP IS ENCOURAGED BUT NOT REQUIRED. OPEN SEATING.

IN THE EVENT OF RAIN, SHOW WILL BE RESCHEDULED AT THE SAME LOCATION. NO ALCOHOL IS PERMITTED.

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FAQs

How will it work?

RSVP is encouraged but not required for entry. No need to check in, just show up! This show will have open seating on the lawn.

How do I get there?

Subway: take the G train to the Fulton St. station; the B, Q or R trains to the Dekalb Av. station; or the C train to Lafayette Av. station. Bus: take the B54 to Myrtle Av/N Portland Av or the B38 to Dekalb Av/S Portland Av. If you are driving you will need to find street parking.

Do I need to bring a chair?

Chairs will not be provided. You are welcome to bring your own blanket or lawn chair to sit on the lawn.

Where will the screening take place?

The entrance to the screening will be at the Myrtle Avenue and N Portland Ave entrance to Fort Greene Park. Seating will be on the lawn directly in front of this entrance, with check-in right at the gate to the lawn.

Can I bring food and drinks?

No alcoholic beverages are allowed. Feel free to bring snacks and non-alcoholic beverages!

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

Rooftop Films are open to all ages.

How accessible is this venue?

The lawn where the film will take place is up a steep incline coming from all directions. We are happy to assist anyone walking up the incline, but if this brings up any concerns, please email us at [email protected] or call at 718-417-7362 for more information.

You didn't answer my questions!

Sorry about that! Give us a call at 718-417-7362 or click the "contact us" button below.