Follow-up: Friday Night Throwdown Inspires a Movie

Yesterday we linked to the New York Times’ feature on “Friday Night Throwdown,” the uber-hip underground boxing event frequently held in LES warehouse spaces. Later in the day, I spoke with filmmaker Michelle Groskopf, who’s making a documentary about Throwdown’s biggest star.

Several years ago, Michelle recognized the up-and-comer, sometimes referred to as “Rockstar Charlie,” was someone to watch. He’s now an undefeated boxer, aiming for the super middleweight title of the Golden Gloves (and an aspiring model about to land a contract with a major agency). Charlie has been training seriously for a few years now and is being coached by Brooklyn trainer Leon Taylor, (“the greatest fighter never known”).

Groskopf said she always felt Charlie was a fascinating kid with a keen sense of style. And she is intrigued by the twists and turns that lay ahead for Charlie (inside and outside the ring).  He struggles with ADD, loves to party and now has a posse of adoring fans following his every move.   If he wins the Golden Gloves, Charlie could have a professional career in front of him.  The only thing standing in his way, his coach says, is — Charlie.

Michelle is working with LES producer Laurie Gwen Shapiro and a Chinatown resident, photographer Edel Kelly.  They’ve got a great team and a great story, but still need the funds to make it all happen. Visit their Kickstarter page to ensure that the film gets made and watch their intriguing teaser here.