Kenneth Cole Hits the Big Screen at Hamptons International Film Festival

Kenneth Cole is heading to the big screen.

“A Man with Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole” is set to premiere at the Hamptons International Film Festival this weekend.

The doc will explore the life, career and activism of the veteran footwear designer. Known for merging fashion with social causes, Cole has addressed issues such as AIDS, homelessness, human rights, and mental health through his innovative advertising and business practices.

Cole has also been known for his eyebrow-raising ads that have tackled controversial topics such as gun reform, the Iraq war, climate change and much more.

The film, directed by Dori Berinstein, features interviews with various influential figures from scientists, collaborators, partners and employees, and uses archival footage to showcase Cole’s significant impact on both the fashion industry and social advocacy.

The documentary also highlights Kenneth Cole’s enduring commitment to business and corporate responsibility over the past 40 years as his company, Kenneth Cole Productions, still remains strong. Most recently, the company launched first women’s apparel collection under the creative direction of Emily Cole. The highly anticipated fall 2024 ready-to-wear lined launched Sept. 30, featuring a campaign starring Academy Award-winning actress Ariana DeBose.

In August, Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. and Marc Fisher Footwear Company teamed up for men’s footwear. As part of the new partnership, Marc Fisher Footwear Company is responsible for the development, sourcing, production and sales of all Kenneth Cole men’s footwear under the Kenneth Cole New York and Kenneth Cole Reaction labels.

Outside of business, Cole remains steadfast on his on fight to end mental health stigmas.

In 2019, Cole helped to found The Mental Health Coalition, a large-scale effort aimed at bringing together influential nonprofits, businesses, brands, celebrities and influencers in a coordinated effort to destigmatize mental health conditions. The doc will feature more of his work in this space.

The film is executive produced by Geralyn White Dreyfus, Regina K. Scully, Ryan Harrington, Elizabeth Armstrong.