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Once Upon a Time in Harlem

Play trailer Once Upon a Time in Harlem 2026 1h 40m Documentary History Play Trailer Watchlist
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100% Tomatometer 20 Reviews Popcornmeter 0 Ratings

Critics Reviews

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David Fear Rolling Stone 15h
It’s the way that Greaves gives you a true portrait of a community, and lets you eavesdrop on their bickering and airing of grievances as well as their mutual admiration and gratitude. A masterpiece, this. Go to Full Review Siddhant Adlakha Observer Jan 30
4/4
No matter one’s distance from the Harlem Renaissance, Once Upon A Time In Harlem transforms its cultural milieu into personal memory, suffusing history with enormity and reinvigorating it for generations to come. Go to Full Review Lisa Kennedy Variety Jan 29
For some of us, this film might evoke the wonder of a great-grandchild listening in on grown-up reminiscences. Nodding at the substance. Smiling at the style. Go to Full Review Chase Hutchinson The Inlander (Spokane, WA) 15h
It’s a monumental and remarkable work, a true gift from cinema history. Go to Full Review Stephen Saito Moveable Fest 18h
When Greaves and crew were crouched into corners just trying to catch the action, the view can have the same voyeuristic appeal of peeking through a door, only "Once Upon a Time in Harlem" gives a fuller picture than has ever been seen before. Go to Full Review Phoenix Clouden Geek Vibes Nation 1d
8.5/10
The prime reason this film exists is to make sure that the Harlem Renaissance is remembered and remembered with great depth and empathy. That its legacy isn’t forgotten, no matter how messy or narrow it may be. Go to Full Review Read all reviews

Cast & Crew

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William Greaves

Director

David Greaves

Director

Liani Greaves

Producer

Anne De Mare

Producer

Lynn True

Film Editor

Anne De Mare

Film Editor

Movie Info

Director
William Greaves, David Greaves
Producer
Liani Greaves, Anne De Mare
Genre
Documentary, History
Original Language
English
Runtime
1h 40m