The documentary ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ has won the Library of Congress Ken Burns Prize for Film, honoring its portrayal of the Harlem Renaissance.
The documentary ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem,’ which explores the legacy of the Harlem Renaissance, has officially won the Library of Congress Lavine/Ken Burns Prize for Film. The announcement was made on September 18, 2026, and reported by The Hollywood Reporter. The film is a notable work in documentary cinema, completed and restored by David Greaves, son of the original filmmaker, William Greaves.
Shot in 1972, ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ was initially filmed by William Greaves during a cocktail party at Duke Ellington's townhouse, featuring influential figures of the Harlem Renaissance. This documentary allows viewers to witness vital conversations among artists who significantly impacted American culture. The film's completion fifty years later by David Greaves signifies both a legacy and a preservation of important historical narratives.
According to the Library of Congress, the documentary is recognized for its stunning portrayal of complex themes around the Harlem Renaissance, making it a relevant contribution to both film and cultural history. The film captures the essence of a vibrant era and provides a unique perspective on how culture is shared and evolves over generations.
As the prize recipient, ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ will receive $200,000, intended to support filmmakers dedicated to telling stories about U.S. history. The prize, established in 2019 by the Library of Congress in partnership with The Better Angels Society, highlights compelling narratives through documentary filmmaking.
In an additional display of merit, the runner-up for this year’s prize, ‘Romare Bearden: A Life in Collage,’ directed by Deborah Riley Draper, will receive $50,000. This film similarly engages with themes related to the Harlem Renaissance through its portrayal of the artist Romare Bearden, whose work served as a bridge to a new visual language in American art.
The jury that selected the winning documentaries described ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ as a seminal work crucial for future discussions around the Harlem Renaissance. The film has already been featured at prestigious film festivals, including Sundance, Cannes, Telluride, and Toronto, and is set to screen again at the New York Film Festival on September 29, followed by a theatrical release starting October 16, 2026.
Ken Burns himself commended the film in a statement, recognizing it as a festive journey through the memories of remarkable individuals and highlighting its importance as both a celebration of artistic achievement and an intimate exploration of generational conversation about art.
Both ‘Once Upon a Time in Harlem’ and its runner-up will be honored at a ceremony in New York on October 22, 2026, where they will receive further recognition for their contributions to documentary filmmaking.
Katherine Malone-France, president and CEO of The Better Angels Society, noted that both films illuminate the enduring impact of the Harlem Renaissance on American culture. This emphasis on cultural and artistic expression brings value not only to the individual stories of artists but also to the broader historical narrative, making them essential educational tools.
Winning the Library of Congress Ken Burns Prize underscores the vital role of documentaries in preserving and interpreting cultural history. This recognition not only brings financial support but also elevates the film within the documentary filmmaking community. These developments promise to inspire future projects and discussions surrounding the Harlem Renaissance and its lasting legacy. By capturing significant voices from history, such films contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse American narratives and experiences.
For further details on the runner-up and other finalists, continue reading the Library of Congress announcements and The Hollywood Reporter for ongoing updates.
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