111th Street

About This Movie

So, '111th Street' is this intriguing black and white student film from UCLA that really captures a raw slice of life in the slums of Queens during the early 60s. You have this Youth Board Officer, Bob, who’s trying to bridge the gap with a gang of Puerto Rican and Jewish teens - it’s like a time capsule of youth culture and socio-economic issues of the time. The pacing is reflective and allows for some quiet moments that really let the viewer soak in the atmosphere, which is distinctively gritty. The performances are not polished but have an authenticity that draws you in, reflecting a real struggle for connection and understanding. It’s an interesting piece for anyone looking at the evolution of student filmmaking and social commentary in cinema.

This film, preserved by the UCLA Film and Television Archive, is not widely circulated, making it a rare find for collectors interested in early student films or socio-political narratives. The scarcity of physical copies adds an extra layer of allure. Its historical context and raw portrayal of the struggles in urban America during the 60s contribute to its significance, which collectors might appreciate, especially those focusing on the evolution of filmmaking techniques in educational settings.