"The Family Ladera" World Premiere

The Family Ladera is a documentary about the generational tennis community at Ladera Park in South L.A., where Black tennis history thrives. A cultural intersection of kinship for nearly 40 years, this hidden gem embodies a beacon of hope, connection, and opportunity. Deceptively appearing as two modest courts, the real treasure lies in the spirit that exudes life from these courts. Young and seasoned players alike discover not only the joy of tennis but life skills that extend beyond any game. Using interviews, footage of players in action, and present-day and historical stills, filmmakers Mike Bonifer and Christopher Cole, both Ladera Park regulars, spent eight years capturing this heartfelt homage to the players and traditions that make “The Ladera Park Game” unique to LA, and to the sport of tennis. Over he past two years, they have assembled a film that honors the Ladera Park players, both individually and as a community. Rev. Albert Starr, a poet and pastor from South L.A., narrates the film with an epic poem written by Bonifer. At its core, The Family Ladera is about triumph through community. In honor of friends, family and community members devastated by the recent L.A. fires, proceeds from this World Premiere will support victims in Altadena. Join us as we celebrate the strength of unity, both on and off the court. Game, set, match!