Short Film Program
New York Non-Fiction 2026
A restless collection of New York City folklore drawn from lived moments, local histories, and the myths that circulate through its streets and boroughs.
Fri Jul 31 7:45 PM
The Films
Aja Monet: Live from the Blue Note, NYC
All Rights Aint Reserved ©️ | US | 7
Set during her sold-out residency at the historic Blue Note Jazz Club, this intimate short film follows Grammy-nominated poet Aja Monet as she moves between performance and stillness, transforming the stage into a space for vulnerability, resistance, and connection. Captured entirely on film, the piece observes the quiet moments behind the voice as much as the electricity of the room itself, creating an immersive reflection on presence, artistry, and what it means to truly be heard.
Barriga Llena, Corazón Contento (Full Belly, Happy Heart)
Jordana Rubenstein-Edberg & Marshall Hanig | US | 17
Barriga Llena, Corazón Contento (Full Belly, Happy Heart) is a chorus of stories from the organizers of Fenix Community Fridge, a grassroots food pantry in Ridgewood, Queens, run out of a local car service. The film interweaves migration journeys, home-made meals, and the everyday acts of care that bind a community together.
Being Bublé
Dan Perlman | US | 20
A deeply unqualified man is inexplicably hired to be a Michael Bublé impersonator at a rich stranger’s party. Despite no resemblance, no singing ability, and just one week to prepare, he gives it everything he’s got.
Daily Worker
Ting Su | US, China | 10
Digitizing union newspapers in the quiet of a darkroom, a filmmaker reflects on her relationship to labor and the meaning of work.
A Pocket Guide to Pigeon Watching
Adam Elliott | US | 7
A glimpse into the remarkable lives of our closest avian neighbors, and what they reveal about us.
Shanti Rides Shotgun
Charles Frank | US | 8
On Manhattan's jam-packed streets, NYC's most iconic driving instructor prepares students for the road ahead.
Survival Without Rent
Katie Heiserman & Elana Meyers | US | 21
Told with rare archival footage from the 1980s and 90s, Survival Without Rent follows a vibrant community of artists and activists as they take over abandoned buildings on New York’s Lower East Side.
Performer
GREG BANK$
Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and now based in Brooklyn, New York, Greg Bank$ is a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and performer whose artistry bridges the rich musical traditions of his hometown with the relentless energy of New York City. Blending soul, funk, R&B, rock, and pop into a sound that is both timeless and unmistakably his own, Greg has built a reputation as an artist who doesn’t simply perform he creates unforgettable experiences.
A self-taught guitarist, Greg honed his craft on the streets and subway platforms of New York City during the pandemic, transforming sidewalks into concert halls and everyday moments into shared celebrations. His electrifying performances drew thousands of onlookers and captivated audiences around the world, including a viral performance that amassed more than 36 million views across social media. Those spontaneous performances became more than entertainment they became symbols of hope, resilience, and the unifying power of music. Greg’s voice carries a rare emotional honesty that resonates long after the final note. Whether performing for a single passerby or a packed stadium, he possesses the uncommon ability to make every listener feel seen. His music celebrates humanity, connection, and the belief that even the smallest moments can change lives. His undeniable talent has attracted the attention of influential artists including Lenny Kravitz and SZA, while leading to collaborations with rapper G-Eazy on the recordings “Candy Girl” and “RunAround Sue.” As an independent artist, Greg has earned national television exposure, major brand partnerships, international fashion campaigns viewed by millions, stadium performances, and a rapidly growing global audience.
Greg’s story extends far beyond music. He is currently co-producing a feature documentary, The Song We Shared (working title), inspired by his years busking on the streets of New York and his profound friendship with Jayson Corwise, a man experiencing homelessness whose life became forever intertwined with Greg’s through music. Before Jayson’s passing, the two shared songs, conversations, and an extraordinary human bond that challenged perceptions of homelessness, dignity, friendship, and hope. More than a film about street performance, The Song We Shared is a deeply moving exploration of the ways music can restore humanity, build unexpected family, and remind us that every person has a story worth hearing.
With millions of online viewers, an ever-growing international fan base, and an unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling, Greg Bank$ continues to redefine what it means to be an independent artist in the modern era. Every performance, every song, and every story is an invitation to connect more deeply with ourselves, with one another, and with the world around us. Greg Bank$ isn’t simply building a career he’s creating a legacy rooted in soul, compassion, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.
A self-taught guitarist, Greg honed his craft on the streets and subway platforms of New York City during the pandemic, transforming sidewalks into concert halls and everyday moments into shared celebrations. His electrifying performances drew thousands of onlookers and captivated audiences around the world, including a viral performance that amassed more than 36 million views across social media. Those spontaneous performances became more than entertainment they became symbols of hope, resilience, and the unifying power of music. Greg’s voice carries a rare emotional honesty that resonates long after the final note. Whether performing for a single passerby or a packed stadium, he possesses the uncommon ability to make every listener feel seen. His music celebrates humanity, connection, and the belief that even the smallest moments can change lives. His undeniable talent has attracted the attention of influential artists including Lenny Kravitz and SZA, while leading to collaborations with rapper G-Eazy on the recordings “Candy Girl” and “RunAround Sue.” As an independent artist, Greg has earned national television exposure, major brand partnerships, international fashion campaigns viewed by millions, stadium performances, and a rapidly growing global audience.
Greg’s story extends far beyond music. He is currently co-producing a feature documentary, The Song We Shared (working title), inspired by his years busking on the streets of New York and his profound friendship with Jayson Corwise, a man experiencing homelessness whose life became forever intertwined with Greg’s through music. Before Jayson’s passing, the two shared songs, conversations, and an extraordinary human bond that challenged perceptions of homelessness, dignity, friendship, and hope. More than a film about street performance, The Song We Shared is a deeply moving exploration of the ways music can restore humanity, build unexpected family, and remind us that every person has a story worth hearing.
With millions of online viewers, an ever-growing international fan base, and an unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling, Greg Bank$ continues to redefine what it means to be an independent artist in the modern era. Every performance, every song, and every story is an invitation to connect more deeply with ourselves, with one another, and with the world around us. Greg Bank$ isn’t simply building a career he’s creating a legacy rooted in soul, compassion, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.
Event Details
7:45 PM
Doors Open
8:15 PM
Live Music from GREG BANK$
9:00 PM
Films Begin
10:30 PM
Q&A with Filmmakers
10:45 PM
Afterparty, sponsored by Lake Hour and SingleCut Beersmiths
TICKETS
Venue
Green-Wood Cemetery
500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11232
Support Rooftop Films
Celebrate 30 years of Rooftop Films by becoming a member today—unlock elevated access, exclusive experiences, and a front-row seat to the future of independent cinema in New York City.


