The Downtown Festival: La Cocina by Alonso Ruizpalacios + Q&A

In the heart of a bustling Times Square kitchen, dreams and desperation collide as the back-of-house staff each chase the elusive American dream. When money goes missing from the till, the spotlight falls on Pedro (Raúl Briones), a passionate dreamer entangled in a tumultuous love affair with Julia (Rooney Mara), a waitress grappling with her own commitments. As tensions rise and shocking revelations unfold, the relentless pace of the kitchen threatens to shatter the hopes and aspirations of those who keep it running. It’s a high-stakes drama that explores the intersection of the personal ambition and systemic exploitation of undocumented immigrant workers within the pressure-cooker environment of a Times Square New York restaurant.

Q&A following screening.

THE DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL is a celebration of emerging and established independent artists across film, music, art, and culture in New York City. These artists and their work contribute to the fabric of “downtown” and the festival reflects that special convergence of various disciplines. The Festival showcases up-and-coming talent alongside established icons through dynamic and exciting film screenings, music performances, panel discussions, and special events. Attendees are invited to experience a diverse array of voices and unique perspectives on the forefront of artistic expression. In the spirit of the energy of lower Manhattan, the Festival acts as a melting pot of ideas, inspiration, and collaboration. Roxy Cinema is the host of the Festival’s film screenings (World and New York premieres).

www.thedowntownfestival.com
Festival Director: Rebekah Sherman-Myntti
Deputy Director: Sophie Kaufman