Filmmaker Julie Cohen profiles four generations of the Russ family, who have owned and operated Russ & Daughters Appetizers on New York's Lower East Side for more than a century, serving fresh fish and other items to a (mostly) Jewish clientele. The documentary combines interviews, archival film, old photographs, whimsical animation, and narration from several of the store's oldest customers. Joel Russ started with a pushcart before opening his small storefront in 1914. His three daughters worked with him from childhood on, and after they were married, Russ made them partners in the business—something unheard of at the time. Anne, 92, and Hattie, 100, tell stories of flirty sales tactics, meeting their eventual husbands via the shop, and they recall their father's single-minded focus on the enterprise. Other interviewees include Anne's son and family historian, Mark; Dominican immigrant Herman Vargas, who came to peel onions in 1979, developed a knack for Yiddish, and became known for his “artistic” slicing skills; and famous patrons, including Mario Batali, Morley Safer, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Calvin Trillin, and Ruth Bader Ginsberg (who can't even find words for Russ & Daughters' smoked salmon: “So delicious, I can't ... I wish I could describe it”). Today, Joel Russ's great-grandchildren still schmooze with patrons on Houston Street but are also automating orders and opening a branch café. Showcasing one family's humor, dedication, and pride, Cohen serves up a remarkable American immigrant tale. DVD extras include behind-the-scenes footage, more stories from the Russ family, and an interview with the director. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)
The Sturgeon Queens
(2014) 53 min. DVD: $99: public libraries & high schools; $295 w/PPR: colleges & universities. Seventh Art Releasing. Volume 30, Issue 3
The Sturgeon Queens
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: