Bed-Stuy Tofu

A feel-good documentary about a Brooklyn street cat who brings a community together — and the larger questions his life raises.

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About the film

In Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn, a cat named Tofu has earned the nickname The Mayor of Bainbridge Street. Long before he lived with me, Tofu was already part of the block — slipping through windows, napping on stoops, and greeting neighbors as if he owned the street. Over time, he became more than just a neighborhood cat: he’s a symbol of connection in a city where it’s easy to feel isolated.This short documentary celebrates Tofu and the community that surrounds him. Through neighbors’ stories, local traditions, and events like the annual Halloween photo booth, the film shows how one cat sparked joy, art, and even new beginnings — including helping other cats find homes.But life on the street is never without risk. The film also raises a bigger question: what does it mean for cats — and people — to live freely in a place like Brooklyn?

Watch the Trailer

Meet Tofu, the cat who became a neighborhood legend.

From the Director

Tofu is technically my cat, but in truth, he belongs to the block. I first met him the same way many neighbors did — on the street. For years, he came and went through a first-floor window in my building, living as part of the neighborhood. In 2012, he was given to me, and I had to figure out how to continue the life he already knew, even though I lived on the fourth floor. Tofu chose the street long before he chose me.I’ve watched him bring neighbors together across lines that usually keep people apart — race, class, gender, gender identity, and age. He’s inspired artwork, ornaments, even traditions. Strangers stop to talk because of him. Kids grow up with him in their family photos. In a city where it’s easy to feel isolated, Tofu became a point of connection.But joy comes with complexity. I’ve received voicemails — some supportive, some critical — questioning whether outdoor cats should roam freely. And when Tofutti, a neighborhood cat named in Tofu’s honor, passed away after being attacked, the reality of life outdoors hit close to home. Her story, and her humans’ reflections, reminded me that freedom can be joyful, but also fragile.This film holds both truths: the sweetness of a community bound together by a cat, and the bigger question of what it means to let an animal live on their own terms.

Voices of Bainbridge Street

The story is told through the neighbors who feed Tofu, laugh at him, paint him, photograph him, and proudly call him The Mayor. Their voices — funny, tender, and real — are the foundation of this film.From stoops and storefronts to kitchen tables and backyards, the film captures a mosaic of daily life on one Brooklyn block. Neighbors have shared stories of watching over him, worrying when he’s disappeared, and even stepping in to bring him back after others tried to claim him as their own. On rainy days, my phone buzzes with text messages from people checking to make sure he’s safe inside.Here’s a glimpse behind the scenes: the neighbors of Bainbridge Street sharing their stories in their own words and spaces.

Where We’re At

Currently:
Editing in progress, independently funded.End of 2025:
Film completed.2026:
Community screening in New York City + festival submissions.

Get Involved

THE MAYOR OF BAINBRIDGE ST. is a self-funded labor of love. I’m looking for champions — Executive Producers, collaborators, or anyone who wants to help share this story with a wider audience.Want to know about the first Brooklyn screening, festival premieres, or a future campaign? Sign up for updates or reach out directly.

The Team

Director / Producer:
Jimi Sweet — Filmmaker, photographer, and storyteller based in Brooklyn. Jimi has worked across design, photography, and film, and is currently directing and producing THE MAYOR OF BAINBRIDGE ST. as an independent labor of love.Executive Producers:
Generously supported by early backers, with additional Executive Producers to be announced.Additional Team:
Editors, collaborators, and community partners will be shared as the film nears completion.Starring:
Bed-Stuy Tofu — The Mayor of Bainbridge Street himself.