Our New Documentary--

WILT CHAMBERLAIN: BORSCHT BELT BELLHOP

A Short Film by Caroline Laskow & Ian Rosenberg

Premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 19, 2013

For more info, and to go to our Wilt page, click here.

WELCOME TO KUTSHER'S: THE LAST CATSKILLS RESORT

A documentary by Caroline Laskow & Ian Rosenberg

Kutsher's Country Club is the last surviving Jewish resort in the Catskills.  One of the legendary Borscht Belt hotels during its heyday, Kutsher's has been family-owned and operated for over 100 years.  Exploring the full Dirty Dancing-era Catskills experience— and how it changed American pop culture in the comedy, sports and vacation industries— this award-winning documentary captures a last glimpse of a lost world as it disappears before our eyes.   

The Catskills resorts were not only a Jewish refuge and family vacation paradise, they also gave birth to American stand-up comedy, the NBA All-Star Game, and all-inclusive resorts.  This film brings to life how Kutsher’s thrived at the center of all this growth and excitement.  Watch Wilt Chamberlain both playing ball and working as a bellhop at Kutsher’s; Red Auerbach as the Kutsher’s Sports Director; and Kutsher’s Maurice Stokes benefit game create an All-Star basketball tradition.  Laugh with appreciation at Freddie Roman as his classic Borscht Belt routine still brings down the house, and wonder in amazement as Andy Kaufman wrestles a female Kutsher’s guest for $50.  Marvel at the abundance of hearty kosher feasts where no one can get away with ordering just one main dish, and the non-stop whirl of recreational activities.  And as the Catskills decline and the end of an era draws near, witness a final twist: can an indie music festival reinvent Kutsher’s for a new generation?  The story of Kutsher’s is uniquely American, unexpectedly moving and a vital chapter – previously unexplored – of the modern Jewish experience.

About the Film:

Directed and Produced by Caroline Laskow & Ian Rosenberg
Edited and Original Music by D.S. Fuller
Capture Format: DV

Screening Formats: DigiBeta, Blu-ray, DVD
Running Time:  73 Minutes

World Premiere:     

The New York Jewish Film Festival at Lincoln Center
Closing Night Selection, January 26, 2012

WINNER! BEST DOCUMENTARY Audience Award at Miami Jewish Film Festival 2012