Kino Lorber, a renowned distributor in the film industry, has acquired the North American rights to the highly anticipated indie drama “Story Ave.” Directed by debut filmmaker Aristotle Torres, the film has garnered critical acclaim and recently won the Special Jury Award for Cinematography at the prestigious SXSW festival. With its captivating storyline and stellar cast, including Luis Guzman and Asante Blackk, “Story Ave” is set to make its theatrical premiere on September 29th, followed by a digital and home video release on all major platforms.
A Unique New York Story
“Story Ave” is a heartfelt and authentic portrayal of life in the South Bronx, offering a fresh perspective on the struggles and beauty of the community. The film follows the journey of Kadir Grayson, a talented teenage graffiti artist who has lost his way after the tragic death of his younger brother. Overwhelmed by grief and the pressures of school and family, Kadir finds solace and excitement in the dangerous world of graffiti gangs.
In an attempt to prove himself to his neighborhood gang, Kadir decides to rob Luis Torres, an MTA worker, on the Story Ave subway platform. However, their encounter takes an unexpected turn when Luis offers Kadir a meal instead of handing over the cash. This simple act of kindness sparks a transformative friendship between the two characters, revealing the potential for a better life through Kadir’s artistic talent.
Stellar Cast and Filmmaking Talent
“Story Ave” boasts an impressive cast led by Luis Guzman, known for his remarkable performances in “Narcos” and “Boogie Nights,” and Asante Blackk, recognized for his work in “When They See Us” and “This Is Us.” With their nuanced portrayals, Guzman and Blackk bring depth and authenticity to their respective characters, adding emotional resonance to the story.
Director Aristotle Torres makes a striking feature debut with “Story Ave” after establishing himself as a successful music video director. His previous work includes collaborations with renowned artists such as J. Cole, Nas, and Kanye West. Torres’s experience in visual storytelling shines through in the film, as he creates a visually stunning and immersive experience for the audience.
Critical Acclaim and Recognition
“Story Ave” has received widespread critical acclaim, with praise for its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and stunning cinematography. The film’s cinematographer, Eric Branco, was honored with the Special Jury Award for Cinematography at SXSW, highlighting his exceptional talent in capturing the essence of the South Bronx and its vibrant street art culture.
Critics have praised the film for its authentic depiction of the South Bronx and its ability to offer a complex and genuine representation of Latino stories. In a time where Hollywood struggles to provide diverse narratives, “Story Ave” stands out as a necessary and impactful film that addresses this gap.
The Journey to Theaters
The acquisition of “Story Ave” by Kino Lorber marks a significant milestone for director Aristotle Torres and his team. Wendy Lidell, the Senior Vice President of Theatrical Distribution and Acquisitions at Kino Lorber, expressed her enthusiasm for the film, highlighting its unique portrayal of New York and the captivating performance by Luis Guzman.
Aristotle Torres expressed his gratitude and excitement for the partnership with Kino Lorber, acknowledging the dedication and passion that he and his team poured into the project. This collaboration with a renowned distributor opens doors for “Story Ave” to reach a broader audience and share its unique vision with viewers worldwide.
“Story Ave” is a remarkable film that offers a fresh and authentic perspective on life in the South Bronx. With its powerful storytelling, exceptional performances, and stunning cinematography, the film has already garnered critical acclaim and recognition. The acquisition by Kino Lorber ensures that this impactful and necessary story will reach a wider audience, bringing attention to the talents of director Aristotle Torres and the exceptional cast.
As we eagerly await the theatrical release of “Story Ave” on September 29th, audiences can anticipate a thought-provoking and emotional journey that highlights the power of friendship, resilience, and the pursuit of one’s artistic dreams. This indie gem is poised to make a significant impact in the film industry and leave a lasting impression on viewers worldwide.
Photo courtesy Kino Lorber.
