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Across the Tracks: A Las Vegas Westside Story

"Across The Tracks: A Las Vegas Westside Story" is a documentary film that delves into the rich and untold stories of the historic Westside of Las Vegas. From its humble beginnings to its pivotal role in shaping the city's cultural landscape, this documentary uncovers the vibrant and often overlooked history of a neighborhood that stood at the crossroads of progress, segregation, and resilience.

Through in-depth interviews with local residents, community leaders, historians, and archival footage, "Across the Tracks" paints a vivid portrait of a community that flourished against all odds. The film highlights the 118 year history, from the early days when the Westside, predominantly inhabited by black Americans, served as a safe haven during an era of racial discrimination to today where the efforts of city leaders and dedicated residents are leading the charge for a renaissance.

  • Emmett Gates
    Director
  • Robert Perez
    Cinematographer
  • Emmett Gates
    Writer
  • Dewey Cooper
    Executive Producer
  • Berge Garabedian
    Executive Producer
  • Steven Spann
    Associate Producer
  • Koby Dumas
    Associate Producer
  • Dale Mathis
    Production Design
  • Sean Carter
    CGI/SFX Supervisor
  • Phillip G. Henry
    Music Supervisor/Composer
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Runtime:
    1 hour 54 minutes 44 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    February 7, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    277,000 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Sundance Film Festival
    Park City
    United States
    January 19, 2024
    30 minute screener
  • Las Vegas red carpet
    Las Vegas
    United States
    February 24, 2024
    Las Vegas Premiere
Director Biography - Emmett Gates

Emmett Gates is an artist, gallery curator and filmmaker. He is a native of Las Vegas, Nevada. His production company, Slicktion Culture productions, founded in 2020 during the pandemic, seeks to amplify the unique historical perspectives and original narratives of Black America.

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Director Statement

I'm tired of discussions about black mermaids, a black Santa Claus or a black Superman. I'd rather we create our own, authentic, black American mythologies.