Film Summary

Documentary filmmaker Doug Block had every reason to believe his parent’s 54-year marriage was a good one. So he isn’t prepared when, just a few months after his mothers’ unexpected death, his 83-year old father, Mike, phones to announce that he’s moving to Florida to live with “Kitty”, his secretary from 40 years ago. Always close to his mother and equally distant from his father, he’s stunned and suspicious.

When Mike and Kitty marry and sell the longtime family home, Doug returns to suburban Long Island with camera in hand for one last visit. And there, among the lifetime of memories being packed away forever, he discovers 3 large boxes filled with his moms’ daily diaries going back 40 years. Investigating his family history, Doug finally comes to peace with two parents who are far more complex and troubled than he ever imagined.

Trailer: 51 Birch Street

The Civil Society Screenings

Are curated to create public dialogue over conflict (familial, political, cultural, and socio-economic) and ways to move to mutual understanding and organized community activism. This monthly film series is designed to make you think, and develop a framework to engage your community for positive change.

Save the dates for this FREE film series: Films Start at 7pm (Doors 6:30pm)

May 29th: 51 Birch Street
June 12th: Defining Us
July 17th: Medium Cool
August 21st: The Beautiful Country
September 18th: Fighter
November 13th: My Omaha
December 11th: We Still Here

Special thanks to Massdevelopment, Creative Cities, & Lynnspire Grants.