"The Market" follows three small businesses; a Salvadorian pupuseria, Peruvian take-out restaurant, and Pakistani perfume shop. Starting in the fall of 2019 --and continuing for over a year-- the film captures key moments of challenge and reward.
In the spring of 2020, all are blindsided by an unexpected public health and economic crisis. The coronavirus pandemic magnifies the challenges of being an independent entrepreneur, putting an enormous strain on new businesses and those already struggling to survive. For some, COVID-19 exacerbates the precariousness of commerce in a redeveloping neighborhood. As the D.C. economy grinds to a halt, the film's subjects try to adapt, stay open, stay safe, and pay rent. In the end, not all can stay afloat.
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2022 Ward Five Film LLC.