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Tribeca Film Festival 2016: ‘Wolves’ director Bart Freundlich talks NYC

Bart Freundlich’s new film “Wolves,” starring Carla Gugino and Michael Shannon and featuring the debut of Taylor John Smith, premieres at the Tribeca Film Festival at 6 p.m. April 15 at the SVA Theater, 333 W. 23rd St. (For repeat screenings of “Wolves,” and all events at Tribeca, check the full schedule at tribecafilm.com.) The director, who is married to actress Julianne Moore, dished about his hometown of NYC. 

What does the Tribeca Film Festival mean to you?

New York City has a collective soul. Tribeca is a projection of that soul.  

Has New York City inspired your work in any way?

In every way. I grew up here. Played basketball in the playgrounds here, and raised a family here. I even continue to root for the New York Knicks, positive that a championship is right around the corner. It’s a little known fact about New Yorkers — at heart we are optimistic romantics.

What’s your favorite restaurant in NYC?

Bar Pitti

Yellow cab, Uber or subway?

All of the above.You’ve got to be flexible to really get around. I also walk a lot, drive and Citi Bike. Very occasionally, bus.  

Why should Tribeca audiences see your film/project?

It’s not about “should.” But people who choose to go will get to see a fantastic, diverse, New York ensemble of actors led by Michael Shannon and Carla Gugino. “Wolves” also features what I believe is one of the all-time-best debut performances by the soulful and highly skilled Taylor John Smith. While the family drama is rich and complex, the basketball is fun, exciting and ultimately, I believe a great representation of what it means to be a player in NYC.