Dir: Sergio Camacho | US Doc series | Ep 47′
Craft Beer buys into the entire ethos of the American Dream. A story of grit, endeavour and the pioneering spirit of their forefathers has captured the imagination of the current generation, just as it did their ancestors. This new generation of artisans has channelled their creative energy back into the New York City with small-town breweries and brewpubs. Director Sergio Camacho sets out to discover more about the people behind the passion.
Various home brewing entrepreneurs describe how setting up a brewery in New York is not just about creating craft beer with its simple trio of water, grain and hops from New Jersey, but about bringing all sorts of people together to enjoy a quality product with roots in the traditional industrial City. This departure from the glitzy cocktail culture of yesterday is not just for bearded dudes but aims at a more sophisticated population. And music is also interweaved in the trend.
We hear the personal stories of various brewing pioneers of craft beer, amongst them Laura Dierks and Jesse Ferguson of Interbro Brewery, who have found a way to blend beer and hip-hop to create a dynamic brewery. They describe how the craft movement has allowed them to reconnect with New York and find new directions in the city with beer bars, contests and festivals.
More than just a beverage, craft beer has become a symbol of identity, community and pride for the brewers who create it and love it. Occasionally worthy in tone but well-made and well-intentioned, United Crafts of America shows how craft beer IS the story of America. @MeredithTaylor
22 JUNE | MANHATTAN FILM FESTIVAL 2025 | and also at DANCES WITH FILMS LA ON 28 JUNE 2025