Branch Brook Park roller rink, located in Newark, NJ, is one of the few remaining urban rinks of its kind. Serving extremely diverse subcultures within Newark, this space is a microcosm of the city that surrounds it. This film will follow three characters from distinct groups that use the space; a Skate Dancer, a Gospel Skater, and a Roller Derby Girl. Despite their differences in race, class, religion, and sexuality, these skaters are united by the rink, which serves as a refuge from the stress of their lives.
Newark is currently experiencing a 'renaissance', but it is unclear who this renaissance is actually meant to benefit. The rink stands in symbolic and visual opposition to the pervasive, inflexible and false notions attached to the city of Newark.
The Rink is directed and produced by GRITtv's own Sarah Friedland and Ryan Joseph, and you can contribute to finishing the film at Kickstarter.





