Once Upon a Time in Harlem

Once Upon a Time in Harlem is a newly restored documentary assembled from footage of a remarkable 1972 gathering of Harlem Renaissance artists and intellectuals. Filmmaker William Greaves organized the event, bringing together people who in many cases had not seen one another for 50 years. Over four hours, they shared memories, debated their work and cultural legacy, laughed, argued, and reflected on their place in a changing society.

Made from 16mm footage and completed by Greaves’ son, David, the film explores both the lives of these creative figures and the meaning of the Harlem Renaissance. It considers how culture is passed from one generation to the next and how artists help preserve and sustain that cultural energy.

When: The page lists screenings from November 4 through November 12.

Showtimes: November 4 at 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM; November 5 at 11:20 AM, 1:45 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:45 PM; November 6 at 11:20 AM, 1:45 PM, and 4:30 PM; November 7 at 1:45 PM and 4:30 PM; November 8 at 11:20 AM, 1:45 PM, and 4:30 PM; November 9 at 4:30 PM; November 10 at 4:30 PM; November 11 at 4:30 PM; and November 12 at 11:20 AM, 1:45 PM, and 4:30 PM.

Run time: 1 hour, 40 minutes.

Directed by: William Greaves and David Greaves.

Featuring: Arna Bontemps, Ida Mae Cullen, and James Van Der Zee.

Venue: Coolidge Corner Theatre.

Tickets: Price not available.

Online purchase: The listed screenings are available for online purchase.

All dates: Nov 5 at 5:00 PM · Nov 6 at 11:20 AM · Nov 7 at 1:45 PM · Nov 8 at 11:20 AM · Nov 9 at 4:30 PM · Nov 10 at 4:30 PM · Nov 11 at 4:30 PM · Nov 12 at 11:20 AM