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Elegance Bratton’s vérité directorial debut uncovers the gritty resilience of the underground community along the piers at the end of Christopher Street in New York City. Krystal LaBeija, a transgender woman, returns to her Missouri home seeking the acceptance of her mother, who doesn't fully embrace Krystal’s identity. Casper and Desean transition out of homelessness, carving out their place in the world. Bratton utilizes her own experience as a pier kid, the camera never intrusive or objectifying. "Pier Kids" sheds light on the unjust harassment and police profiling of queer kids as they navigate a precarious, complicated and vibrant lifestyle. Preceded by “This is an Address” (dir. Sasha Wortzel 17 min), in which Stonewall veterans and queer activists claim the Christopher Street piers, while cranes raze vacant buildings for a new skyline.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Heartland Film.

Festivals and Awards

aGLIFF, Documentary Jury Prize

Outfest, Emerging Talent

Film Contact

Chester Algernal Gordon

Chester.algernal@gmail.com