The exclusive trailer for Sons of Detroit showcases a filmmaker making a return to an iconic American city.

      As DOC NYC, America's largest documentary film festival, prepares to launch on November 12, we are excited to unveil the first trailer and poster for one of the most eagerly awaited world premieres, Jeremy Xido’s Sons of Detroit. This film delves into themes of race, violence, and love set against the backdrop of 1970s Detroit, capturing the director's return home after two decades. The project was executive produced by Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson (Going To Mars: The Nikki Giovanni Project) and Lori Cheatle (Night Is Not Eternal).

      Here’s the synopsis: “After experiencing a near-fatal heart attack on stage in Berlin, internationally acclaimed performer and filmmaker Jeremy Xido makes his first trip home to Detroit in over 20 years to confront the demons of his past. Growing up as the only child of Marxist parents and the only white kid in his neighborhood, Jeremy was embraced by a Black family in 1970s Detroit. Upon his return, he discovers their house in disrepair and his family fragmented. In an effort to understand what transpired, he seeks out his cousin, Boo, who has recently come home after spending two decades in prison. Together, these two men untangle the complex issues of race, identity, violence, and love that have influenced their lives. Part love letter, part detective narrative, SONS OF DETROIT blends genres, integrating documentary storytelling, performance art, and narrative techniques. Through the lens of a single family in America's iconic city, the film poses pressing questions: What does it mean to be White? What are the consequences of escaping our past? How do we find healing after significant devastation?”

      “SONS OF DETROIT is built around what we refer to as the 'Black Box,' an element that recurs throughout the film,” director Jeremy Xido explained. “The film’s consciousness (or shifting perspective) originates from and is shaped here. As we brainstormed our storytelling approach and how voiceover might be utilized, we drew inspiration from three films: Billy Wilder’s Sunset Boulevard, Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas, and Alan Ball/Sam Mendes’ American Beauty. In each of these films, the narrator is either speaking from beyond the grave, teetering on the brink of life and death, or from the witness stand, a place anticipating future judgment. Each narrator aligns with the character on screen but offers a version of that character who possesses knowledge that the character visible in 'real time' lacks. The Voice represents the character's future self.”

      Check out the trailer and poster below.