Some might say that the Christmas season is just starting to begin, but for the families in the documentary The Merchants of Joy directed by Celia Aniskovich, it begins way earlier than expected.
For the five families that control NYC’s Christmas tree trade, the most wonderful time of the year starts months before the first fir tree displays hit busy sidewalks in the five boroughs. There is the competition for sources and locations—not to mention strategizing to stretch the proceeds of five scant weeks into a living for the rest of the year.
Aniskovich’s delightful peek behind the curtain of a holiday tradition captures a truly singular cast of characters, among them NYC’s seasonal stand workers, who add extra spice to every sale.
The Merchants of Joy is set to have its world premiere at DOC NYC on November 14th, then later this winter, debuts on Prime Video on December 1st.
Watch the official trailer for The Merchants of Joy above.
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