J'ouvert

New York’s J’ouvert overwhelms the senses during the pre-sunrise hours as it marks the start of Carnival festivities. Steel bands are ushered down Brooklyn’s streets by dancing crowds of revelers in an outpouring of percussion music and masquerading. Rooted in the celebration of freedom from slavery, J’ouvert has become an expression of rebirth and joy throughout the Caribbean and abroad. This film explores the rich history of J’ouvert and captures it’s undeniably powerful energy as it lights up the streets of Flatbush in a brilliant explosion of sound, color and excitement.