A documentary by Brooklyn-based filmmakers that tells the story of the East, a pan-African cultural organization built by young people in Bed-Stuy in 1970, is now streaming.
“For generations, the story of the East has been sacred lore to Black Brooklynites and to the Black Liberation Movement globally,” said Tayo Giwa and Cynthia Gordy Giwa, creators of the documentary, "The Sun Rises in the East."
“Making this film was a lesson in the power of young people coming together to create enduring institutions and to fight injustice, while also cultivating a joyful and beautiful life as a form of resistance,” said the Giwas.
The new feature-length film tells the story of how the East grew to become a mecca for Black Brooklynites and an epicenter for political contemporaries.
The organization, which was founded by activist Jitu Weusi, created its own African-centered school and dozens of other self-sufficient businesses and institutions.
The film features interviews with the organization's founding members and examines the challenges that led to its eventual dissolution.
Since the film’s release a year ago, sold-out screenings have been held at Brooklyn Academy of Music and Film at Lincoln Center. The film has also won accolades at the Bushwick Film Festival, The People’s Film Festival and the Africa Movie Academy Awards.
Additionally, the Brooklyn documentary has also been selected for the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival, BronzeLens Film Festival, New York African Film Festival, Sidewalk Film Festival and the British Urban Film Festival.
Recently, the rights for "The Sun Rises in the East" were acquired by Indie Rights, a full-service global distributor.
"Indie Rights is very excited to be distributing this award-winning documentary,” said Linda Nelson, founder of Indie Rights. “We believe it has wonderful, worldwide educational and cultural value that will be very much appreciated by a broad audience."
The film is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies, Google Play and Tubi. For more information, click here.
