New York, NY – After the annual summer tradition of Movies in the Park at Tompkins Square Park was halted during the pandemic, Assembly Member Harvey Epstein was determined to revive this beloved tradition. He teamed up with the Loisaida Center, the Lower East Side Film Festival, Rooftop Films, and Two Boots Pizza to bring the joy of watching summer flicks under the stars back to our neighborhood.

More than simply showing movies, this crew of community leaders organized for free pizza, while supplies last, along with pre-show entertainment at each showing. The film screenings will take place at the Tompkins Square Park Skate/Playground (Ave A and E 10th St.). Each event will start at 8:00 PM and films will commence at sunset.

On June 26th, Encanto (rated PG) will be shown along with a pre-show clown workshop by Matthew Silver and MC Bryan Fernandez. Short films Love Letters to the Subway (2023) and Drumtalk (2022) will precede the film.

The family-friendly fun continues on July 28th with a screening of Little Fugitive (rated G). The Coney Island Circus Sideshow will provide the audience with a dazzling pre-show performance. The shorts for the night will be Practice Space (2024) and the Grand St. Settlement Film.

On August 29th, enjoy live music and a star appearance by Natasha Lyonne as we watch her film Slums of Beverly Hills (rated R). The short films will be curated by Director Tamara Jenkins.

For the grand finale on September 25th, movie-goers will enjoy Everything, Everywhere, All at Once (rated R). Poetry will be presented by Nuyorican Poets Cafe and shorts will be curated by Eden Martinez and the Loisaida Center.

“Movies in the Park is about more than just movies, it's a chance to showcase local talent through our short film features and to bring people together for a positive community experience. I am proud to bring this tradition back to our neighborhood and I thank the Loisaida Center, Rooftop Films, and Phil at Two Boots for making this possible,” said Assembly Member Harvey Epstein.

"As we gather under the stars, free outdoor movie screenings ignite a shared spark of joy and community engagement among families of all backgrounds. These events are not just about watching films; they are vibrant festivals of communal connection, celebrating the rich tapestry of our community. They offer a sanctuary where art meets the public, breaking down barriers and nurturing a collective spirit that uplifts and educates. For families, especially those in urban environments, these screenings provide a rare opportunity to enjoy accessible, quality entertainment in a safe, welcoming space. This is the essence of cultural democracy, where everyone, regardless of their socio-economic status, can partake in the joy of cinema and storytelling,” said Alejandro Epifanio, Executive & Artistic Director of Loisaida Inc., cultural advocate, and community organizer

"Two Boots, celebrating 37 years in the East Village, is excited to bring back Movies in Tompkins after a COVID hiatus – and to offer free pizza to the first 200 hundred guests who attend each show,” said Two Boots Co-Founder Phil Hartman.