Movie Club Memories
Between the late 1960s and early 1970s, the Henry Street Settlement on New York City’s Lower East Side hosted a film workshop known as the Movie Club. Dedicated to teaching neighborhood teenagers the craft of filmmaking, the Club facilitated the production of approximately 80 16mm films during its six-year run. The students' cinematic achievements garnered attention far beyond the city, with numerous films earning international exhibition. This unique and historically significant body of work is now part of the permanent collection at the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, ensuring its continued availability for study and appreciation.
Freddy Perez's Where is it Going To Get Your Peppy (1968): Puerto Rican teenage filmmaker Fred Perez grew up in the 1960s in the Lower Eastside of New York City and made this incredible 16mm film.
Tony Joseph’s Super Bug (1969): Tony was born and raised in New York City. While studying filmmaking at NYU Film School, he made this memorable stop action animation.
Linda Rivera’s Young Love (1968): Lynda grew up in the Lower Easide and made this enchanting teenage love story.
George Mercado’s King Heroin (1970): An unflinching look at the drug scene in the late 60’s. George was a former user of Heroin, and he made this film along with Abbie Montanez, who was the photographer and editor.
Michael Jacobsohn’s Young Brave (1969): Captures the daily life of a group of pre-teenagers. The boys appear largely oblivious to the camera, yet they prove to be a "dynamic gang of playful showoffs," providing an authentic glimpse into their lives.
Fred Nelson’s One Month Ago (1970): The ultimate 1960s, New York City, Love Story.
Alex Roshuks' You are Driving Me Crazy (1970): Classic sureal adventure.
Melissa Powel's To Hear A Whistle' You are Driving Me Crazy (1970):