JR Directs 'The Ghost of Ellis Island' Starring Robert De Niro

For many years, Ellis Island served as an intermediate portal into the land of opportunity, the United States of America. Located on a small island in New York Harbor, the gateway ostensibly served as a beacon of hope for displaced refugees, with the symbolic Statue of Liberty in sight. However, for those deemed unfit for entry into the country, it served as the final view of Uncle Sam. Fascinated by its story, French street artist JR decided to showcase its history through a photo installation, “Unframed – Ellis Island,” hosted inside the region’s local hospital late last year. Assisted by Academy Award winners, screenwriter Eric Roth and actor Robert De Niro, the renowned artist returns for another imaginative endeavor, titled “Ghosts of Ellis Island.” The short film will explore the uncharted territories of the island, which have been neglected for the past 70 years, and pays respect to the unfortunate individuals who were not given a chance at the American Dream. This will be the fifth installment in a series of projects by JR, with the four prior located in Switzerland, Brazil, France and Germany. Enjoy a few behind-the-scenes images, shared by the crew above.