Abacus: Small Enough to Jail
Directed by Steve James

In the 1980s, Thomas Sung was a busy lawyer in New York City, but he saw a need. There was no bank serving the Chinese immigrant community. Motivated to help, Sung founded Abacus Federal Savings Bank in Manhattan’s Chinatown. In the decades that followed, his daughters joined him at the family company, and the business grew. And then, in the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, Abacus was the only U.S. bank accused of mortgage fraud. This stunning film chronicles the Sungs’ legal battle as they fight to defend their business and their family name. Through interviews with people with vastly different points of view—journalists covering the trial, defense lawyers, and the DA’s office—director Steve James provides a fully realized portrait of the complicated realities of the case. But the heart of the film is in its intimate access to the Sung family. With humor and energy, Abacus: Small Enough to Jail tracks the many twists and turns of the case, while introducing us to a family that shares an unforgettable bond.

This event is free, but we recommend reserving free tickets via Eventbrite. The Eventbrite page will open to the public at 9:00 am on January 24.

RSVP INFO
First Team Members*:  Sunday, 1/21 at 9:00 am – Wednesday, 1/24 at 8:00 am
Spotlight Members*:  Tuesday, 1/23 at 9:00 am – Wednesday, 1/24 at 8:00 am
General Public: Wednesday, 1/24 at 9:00 am

* NOTE: A limited number of RSVPs are available for First Team and Spotlight members. If member RSVPs are no longer available, you may RSVP when reservations open to the General Public. General Public RSVPs will remain open until sold out or 5:00 pm. A Last Minute Line (standby line) will be available at the venue for those unable to RSVP for the event.

See our Facebook Event here. Set a reminder on Eventbrite.