Film captures 1972 reunion of Harlem Renaissance figures

In 1972, filmmaker William Greaves hosted a gathering in Duke Ellington’s Harlem apartment, inviting key figures from the Harlem Renaissance, artists, writers, and musicians, many of whom hadn’t seen each other for 50 years.

Greaves filmed the event with the intention of documenting this group and preserving their history.

Though he didn’t finish the film before his death in 2014, his son David Greaves and granddaughter Liani Greaves completed Once Upon a Time in Harlem, which shows the attendees laughing, arguing, and reminiscing about their lives and work. The film captures a vibrant scene with guests like photographer James Van Der Zee and poet Countee Cullen’s widow, Ida Mae Cullen, engaging in lively conversations.

Attendees discussed art, politics, and their experiences during the 1920s, recognizing the decade as the height of the Harlem Renaissance while acknowledging its lasting impact. Regina Andrews shared a story about collecting dishes from local restaurants to host her poet and writer friends, highlighting the simple joys of community and creativity.

The completed documentary, released decades after it began, offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in American history and the people who shaped it, bringing their “now” into the present.