Philadelphia has always been more than the backdrop of American history. It’s the city where the story of America continues to evolve toward a more perfect union. A powerful new documentary, Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story, is about to debut on WHYY, a film that deeply resonates as Philadelphia prepares for America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Last week at the Philadelphia Film Society, WHYY premiered Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story, a powerful new documentary that explores the founding of the nation through voices often left out of traditional history books.
Before the screening, guests, supporters, and people connected with the film, including the UK television production company Bear House Media, gathered for a VIP cocktail reception inside the Philadelphia Film Society, creating an intimate atmosphere ahead of the premiere.
“Within the backdrop of our nation’s Semiquincentennial, this documentary explores the themes and stories that continue to define who we are today, while underscoring the central role Philadelphia played in that history,” said Executive Producer Oliver St. Clair Franklin. “At its core, this film is about people, those whose stories have too often gone untold and the city that brought them together.”
The film weaves together the stories of Indigenous people, enslaved Africans, immigrants, lawmakers, artists, and everyday Philadelphians who helped shape the country from the very beginning. What makes the documentary especially compelling is how deeply it connects the past to the Philadelphia we know today.
Following the screening, guests stayed for a thoughtful discussion with the filmmakers and WHYY’s Cherri Gregg.
‘Becoming American: Philadelphia’s Story,’ premiering May 28 on WHYY-12 before airing nationwide on PBS stations June 15, explores the city’s diverse communities, global influences and untold stories that helped shape the United States.
