You’ll see your morning coffee guy in a whole new way.

The movie will open in LA & Pasadena on September 22nd, and in Chicago on October 20th

NEW YORK – Films Philos will open Ramin Bahrani’s acclaimed feature film MAN PUSH CART at The Angelika Film Center (Houston and Mercer Streets) on Friday, September 8th.  Featuring a heartbreaking performance by former New York City street cart vendor Ahmad Razvi, MAN PUSH CART was one of the most praised films at the 2006 Sundance and New Directors/New Films Film Festivals and is one of those rare motion pictures that gets the heart, soul and spirit of New York City absolutely right.

MAN PUSH CART tells the story of Ahmad (Razvi) a former Pakistani rock singer who currently ekes out a living selling coffee and donuts to morning commuters from his push cart in Midtown Manhattan. Supplementing his income by selling bootleg porn DVDs and taking odd jobs, Ahmad is saving his money to afford a place where he might be able to live with his estranged young son.

Ahmad’s is a harsh, often humiliating life, but he carries on with a stoic dignity and sensitivity, determined to find his way in New York City.  The dull routine of his life is brightened by two developments:  the arrival of a young Spanish woman (Leticia Dolera) who works down the street in a newspaper kiosk; and an offer of assistance from a wealthy fellow Pakistani (Charles Daniel Sandoval), who remembers Ahmad’s former life as a rock star.

While Ahmad strives to pursue these two new possibilities at a better life, he continues his daily routine: setting up his cart in the early morning darkness, then relating with his customers as they buy his coffee, tea, donuts and bagels. This gives MAN PUSH CART a deliberate rhythm as it explores the complex and hidden depths of the character, who we learn is desperately hanging on to his dreams in the midst of grief and despair.

Beautifully observed, MAN PUSH CART is a subtle and technically accomplished film, wholly original in subject, location and characters. It is a haunting and insightful feature that gives a revealing picture of one of New York’s hidden communities and features strong central performances and stunning photography.  MAN PUSH CART is written and directed by Ramin Bahrani and is a Noruz Films production.

MAN PUSH CART is Not Rated and runs 87 minutes.

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