Taylor Hosking Debuts ‘West Side Familia’ at BlackStar Film Festival

Taylor Hosking's debut feature film, ‘West Side Familia,’ is set to premiere at the 15th edition of the BlackStar Film Festival, which commences next week. This documentary, written, directed, and produced by the New York City-based filmmaker, offers a 75-minute exploration into the lives of Puerto Rican biker gangs and their connection to the broader narrative of New York City's transformation across the 20th and 21st centuries. Hosking's work aims to interrogate the city's trajectory through the lens of this specific community, highlighting their experiences and impact.

The BlackStar Film Festival, known for showcasing films by and about people of African descent, provides a platform for diverse cinematic voices. The festival's opening next week marks a significant moment for Hosking, who has independently driven the creative vision for ‘West Side Familia.’ The film's focus on Puerto Rican biker gangs delves into a subculture that has often been overlooked or misrepresented in mainstream media, offering a potentially nuanced perspective. The documentary's runtime of 75 minutes suggests a focused and in-depth examination of its subject matter.

‘West Side Familia’ is positioned as a feature debut for Hosking, indicating a significant step in her filmmaking career. The film's subject matter, the evolution of New York City through the lives of Puerto Rican biker gangs, touches upon themes of community, identity, urban development, and cultural resilience. By centering these narratives, Hosking contributes to a broader conversation about the diverse histories that shape urban landscapes. The film's premiere at a respected festival like BlackStar suggests an anticipation for its critical and artistic reception.

The 15th iteration of the BlackStar Film Festival will host ‘West Side Familia’ as part of its opening program. The festival, founded in 2011, has established itself as a premier event for independent filmmakers, particularly those from the African diaspora. Hosking's involvement signifies the festival's commitment to presenting a wide array of stories and perspectives. The film’s exploration of Puerto Rican biker gangs within the context of New York City’s historical and ongoing changes promises a compelling narrative that intertwines personal stories with socio-historical commentary.