Get ready for a movie experience like no other! Staten Island's own Sam Borowski is back, and this time, he's bringing the laughs and a whole lot of local flavor.
Borowski, a New Springville resident, has just wrapped up his latest directorial venture, a comedy film titled "The Broship." But here's where it gets interesting: he chose to shoot the final scenes at Denino's, a legendary pizza joint in Port Richmond, which holds a special place in his heart.
"Denino's is more than just a restaurant; it's a piece of Staten Island's history and my childhood memories," Borowski shared with a smile. "Michael Burke, the owner, is an incredible person, and his establishment serves the best pizza in the world!"
And the connections don't end there. Borowski's friend and Denino's owner, Michael Burke, even makes a cameo appearance in the film. "Michael's got a touch of Hollywood magic in him," Borowski added.
The cast is a mix of talented individuals, including New York native Vinnie Velez and the rising star Arielle Raycene, who play the lead roles of Marcus and Tanya. Borowski paid homage to the classic "When Harry Met Sally" by framing some shots at Denino's, adding a touch of nostalgia to the film.
"We shot this before the tragic passing of Rob Reiner, a true icon," Borowski said. "'When Harry Met Sally' holds a special place in my heart, and I wanted to honor that classic film."
But the most recognizable face in "The Broship" belongs to Daniel Roebuck, a veteran actor with an impressive resume, including roles in "The Munsters," "The Fugitive," and even playing Jay Leno in "The Late Shift." Roebuck's presence adds a layer of star power to the film.
The film also features local talents like Grasmere comedian Mary Dimino and former firefighter Giselle Renata King, who got her big break in Pete Davidson's "The King of Staten Island." Don Miller, a Staten Island native himself, served as executive producer and first assistant director, bringing his expertise to the project.
"The Broship" is set to premiere on the Festival Circuit in 2026, followed by streaming releases. Borowski is already gearing up for his next project, "Stay Fresh," which is in the development stage.
And this is the part most people miss: Borowski's films are not just about the stars or the story; they're a celebration of Staten Island's rich culture and community. So, get ready to laugh, and maybe even shed a tear, as you experience this unique cinematic journey.
What do you think? Will "The Broship" become a cult classic? Share your thoughts in the comments!
