Sales agent Deckert Distribution boarded “Racist Trees,” directed by Sara Newens and Mina T. Son, and produced by Wayfarer Studios and Wild Pair Films, ahead of its world premiere at Frontlight Strand IDFA. The feature-length documentary investigates the story of racial conflict in time in Palm Springs, revealing a darker racial history that is paralleled by little in the way of the city’s progressive image.
In Palm Springs, Black Lawrence Crossley Historic District is cut off from glitz and glamour, and laced with towering 60-foot Tamarisque trees. It was planted by city authorities in the late 1950s to line the 14th fairway of a city-owned golf course, and as some claim – to prevent Lawrence Crossley from seeing white people, and isolating the neighborhood from the rest. from the city.
The trees have become a focal point of frustration and hostility for local residents who see the trees as a permanent symbol of apartheid. For decades, populations have been forced to tolerate the tangled overgrowth of a highly invasive species that has been officially classified as a pest by the US Department of Agriculture. Until now.
Son comments, “This started as a passion project four years ago after reading a newspaper article about the neighborhood. And despite this city’s current Californian progressive landscape, we were surprised to learn that city leaders were reluctant to recognize the trees as remnants of segregation. After spending time with the community, we learned about the disturbing legacy of systemic racism that extended even beyond these trees. It soon became clear that this story about the erasure of a small community–of just 76 homes in a remote corner of Palm Springs–is a microcosm of the issues people face across the United States today.”
“Racist Trees”
Newens adds: “Although racial tensions in this country are dangerous, our goal has been to tackle this heavy topic with nuance, a sense of lightness, and sometimes even humor – with the hope of disarming our viewers for more honest conversations about race, Even when it is difficult and uncomfortable…but it can become an important part of the examination privilege.”
Deckert Distribution CEO Liselot Verbrugge stated, “This film shows the many facets of the story that have made international headlines – and underscores the importance of communication and dialogue within communities.” “Sarah Newens and Mina Tson approach this sensitive topic in an accessible, sensitive and open manner, with a touch of humor without losing the topic’s seriousness.”
“Racist Trees” is produced by Joanna Sokolowski, Newen’s & Son for Wild Pair Films, with Courtney Parker as co-executive producer. Justin Baldoni and Andrew Kaloff produced on behalf of Wayfarer Studios, along with Endyia Kinney-Sterns and Steve Sarowitz as executive producers.
Wayfarer Studios is co-founded with Baldoni and Sarowitz, and is led by President Jamey Heath. Wayfarer recently announced plans to develop a feature film “Pac-Man,” as well as “The Algorithm,” a feature that will explore how social media platforms handle the attack on the US Capitol.
In 2020, Wayfarer released “Clouds”, the first feature film released on Disney+, directed by Baldoni. Upcoming projects in development include “The Senior” and “Empire Waist.” In 2021, Wayfarer entered into a multifaceted partnership at first sight with Procter & Gamble that spanned across film, television and new media, the first project being Webby’s nominated “The Man Enough Podcast”.
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