Synopsis

​ Directed by two-time Grammy nominee D. Smith, Kokomo City tells the stories of four black transgender sex workers in New York and Georgia. Shot in stark black and white, the film intricately intertwines the realism of these women's lives with raw honesty, unearthing long-dormant truths in a collision of everyday life and social commentary. Accessible to any audience, unapologetic and unapologetic, Smith and her protagonists offer a refreshing honesty that is unconcerned with orthodoxy and decorum, shattering contemporary standards of authenticity.

Program Note

​ Touted as the most captivating documentary by the festival jury at this year's Sundance Film Festival, renowned music producer and director D. Smith skillfully weaves together the story of four black transgender sex workers in New York and Atlanta. The film employs mesmerizing black-and-white visuals and thoughtfully curated soundtracks to bring their narratives to life. Through candid and unfiltered depictions that defy societal taboos, the four main characters offer a vivid portrayal of their daily lives, experiences, and reflections within the bustling city. (Jo Ji-hoon)

Director

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  • D. Smith
  • D. Smith is a two-time Grammy-nominated songwriter-producer who produced and is featured on Shoot Me Down from Lil Wayne's 8x platinum album Tha Carter III and wrote and produced the No. 1 Billboard dance single Love Yourself by Billy Porter. She made history as the first trans woman cast on a primetime unscripted TV show. This is Smith's directorial feature film debut.