Mayor Mamdani Collaborates on Free Screenings of ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’

The mayor of New York City, Zohran Mamdani, is supporting a documentary that has taken over 50 years to complete. ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ will be screened for free in Manhattan this weekend, made possible through a partnership with its distributor, NEON. Audience members can take advantage of four complimentary showings across the city.

This film highlights a remarkable event featuring Black artists, writers, and thinkers, directed by the late William Greaves. In 1972, Greaves, along with his son David, filmed a gathering at Duke Ellington’s townhouse, where notable figures engaged in stimulating dialogue on the Harlem Renaissance. Some attendees included Aaron Douglas, Romare Bearden, and Richard Bruce Nugent, among others.

Although Greaves passed away in 2014 without finalizing the film, David, with his daughter Liani’s assistance, completed it recently. The film has received acclaim at both the Sundance Film Festival and New York Film Festival. Mamdani commented, ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ revitalizes the significant contributions of Harlem Renaissance figures for today’s audience, recognizing their lasting impact on cultural and social movements.

This weekend’s free screenings are scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 24, at 1 p.m. at AMC Magic Johnson Harlem and at 4:45 p.m. at Film Forum, and on Sunday, Oct. 25, at 1 p.m. at AMC Magic Johnson Harlem and at 3:45 p.m. at Howard Gilman Theater. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.