Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn (2020)

About Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn

Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn is a compelling documentary film directed by Muta’Ali Muhammad. This film, released in 2020, details the heartbreaking story of Yusuf Hawkins, a black teenager who was hunted and murdered by a group of young white men in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, back in 1989. This event triggered outrage and a demand for justice, leading to racial tension and unrest across the city.

Making / Production

The film was produced for HBO by Lightbox, a production company known for its high-quality documentary films. Director Muta’Ali Muhammad intertwines archival footage and photographs with interviews from those who knew Yusuf best to present an engaging narrative.

Actors

• Yusef Salaam: The film features Yusef Salaam, one of the Central Park Five, who provides his commentary and perspective based on his own experiences with racial injustice.
• Al Sharpton: Civil rights activist Al Sharpton also lends his voice in the film, having played a central role in seeking justice for Yusuf at the time of the incident.
• Amy Ellenbogen: Another contributor to the documentary is Amy Ellenbogen, a community director in Brooklyn, who speaks on the community's reaction and efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The murder of Yusuf Hawkins sparked massive protests and helped expose the deep racial divisions in New York City.
• The director, Muta’Ali Muhammad, is the grandson of notable actors and civil rights activists Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis.
• The film took almost two years to complete due to the meticulous research and compilation of interview footage.

Awards

While the film did not snatch any awards, it was highly praised for its powerful message and storytelling.

Quotes

• “This boy whose life was taken has awakened the city." - Al Sharpton
• “We want justice, and we want it now." - Community spokeperson
• "Bensonhurst was a ticking time bomb." - Yusef Salaam

Music, Soundtrack

• "Zero Point" by Flux Pavilion
• "Justice Now" by Taylor McFerrin
• "Sombre Reptiles" by Brian Eno