Surf City FD To Show 'Eye-Opening' First-Responder Documentary

SURF CITY, NJ — The Lighthouse International Film Festival and Surf City Volunteer Fire Company will present the documentary "Midnight Family" at :8:30 p.m. Aug. 6 at the firehouse (713 Long Beach Blvd., Surf City).

A gourmet hot dog bar with sides, beer and wine will be available for purchase from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Rolling Stone called the movie one of the "Top 10 Films to See at Sundance." The film highlights the frenetic life of emergency service workers in Mexico City. The Ochoas, a family of private paramedics, try desperately every day to be the first responders to critically injured patients.

Mexico City has less than 50 licensed municipal ambulances despite a population of nearly 9 million, according to the film. The family acts as a crucial, but unregistered, underground lifeline in an occupation riddled with police bribes and cutthroat competition.

The family has a reputation for dependability and trustworthiness but becomes faced with sudden escalation in demanded bribes. This could force them into ethically questionable practices to keep their dire financial situation from compromising the patients in their care.

Rolling Stone called the film "a deft mix of big-picture doc-making and intimate moments... not to mention a wild — and remarkably eye-opening — ride.”

All proceeds for the showing will benefit the Surf City Volunteer Fire Company and the LIFF. Admission is free for all first responders and all LIFF members. General admission is $5, but children and students get in free.

The film is not rated and may not be suitable for children.

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