PFF SpringFest: DOWN WITH THE KING
DIEGO ONGARO | USA | 2021 | 100 MIN | ENGLISH
The picturesque landscapes and tranquil, sparse sounds of rural Massachusetts are a far cry from the city that never sleeps, but that’s exactly what celebrated rap star Mercury Maxwell (Freddie Gibbs) is looking for in Diego Ongaro’s meditative tale. Pressure to release a new album has left a frustrated Merc seeking anonymity and inspiration from the local livestock farmers and mom-and-pop shops (though it’s hard to miss the star decked out in his streetwear and big fur coat). As Merc settles into his new life away from the spotlight, the tender relationships he builds with the locals become threatened when minor confrontations expose the fragile nature of his outsiderness. Gibbs shines in a film that smartly goes against expectations while imbuing a sense of authenticity with the rapper’s real world experience seeping into every frame.
Cast: Freddie Gibbs, Jamie Neumann, David Krumholtz, Sharon Washington
Ticket does not guarantee admission after scheduled start time. Tickets for Festival screenings can be exchanged in person at the box office or via email at least two hours prior to the screening start time. Festival tickets are not eligible for refunds.
PFF SPRINGFEST
May 13 – 15 at the Philadelphia Film Center
With PFF SpringFest, the Philadelphia Film Society presents a mid-year survey of the freshest cinematic marvels from the international festival circuit–from American indie darlings and eye-opening documentaries to acclaimed foreign titles.
CLICK HERE to return to the complete Philadelphia Film Festival SpringFest schedule
A Note on Health & Safety
As of April 22, the Philadelphia Film Society will make masking optional and will continue to require proof of completion of COVID vaccinations for all patrons of the Philadelphia Film Center & PFS Bourse.
Completing vaccinations means that they have received two doses of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine or a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Acceptable forms of proof of vaccination include your CDC record/card or a picture of the vaccination card along with photo I.D.
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