Kenneth Cole, the renowned footwear designer, has prioritized social causes over profits for 40 years. The documentary “A Man With Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole,” directed by Dori Bernstein, makes its world premiere at the Hamptons International Film Festival this year.
Throughout his career, Cole has pioneered corporate social action, advocating for causes such as HIV/AIDS, homelessness, LGBTQIA+ rights, and mental health. The film celebrates Cole’s legacy, featuring archival footage and interviews with fashion leaders and longtime collaborators. We spoke to both Kenneth Cole and Dori Bernstein to learn more.
How did the documentary “A Man With Sole: The Impact of Kenneth Cole” come about? How did you become connected to work on this project?
DB: I have been keenly aware of Kenneth’s commitment to “cause” for decades, but frankly, I had no idea of the magnitude of his impact. In 2017, I had the opportunity to observe Kenneth’s fierce and unflinching advocacy and impact firsthand when I partnered with Kenneth Cole Productions on “The Prom,” a Broadway Musical I produced celebrating LGBTQIA+ acceptance and tolerance. During our collaboration, I saw the depth of passion, the unstoppable commitment to social justice, and the hands-all-over engagement behind Kenneth’s advocacy.
During our collaboration, I became aware of Kenneth’s focus on Mental Health. He was determined to figure out how to use the blueprint from his epic work on HIV-AIDS over the past four decades to take on the stigma around Mental Health. It was then that I started to contemplate a documentary that would drive focus to his deeply impactful and little-known activism with the goal of inspiring others.
KC: I was approached by the filmmaker Dori Berinstein, who I had worked with previously when she produced the Broadway musical “The Prom.” I was a bit hesitant at first, but when she explained her vision of the film and how the intention was to spotlight my advocacy work, especially with The Mental Health Coalition, I thought it would be a great opportunity to tell an important story.
Is there a moment in the documentary that stands out most to you?
KC: I have not seen the film in its entirety yet, but the short clips that I have been able to see are impressive (and I expected nothing less from Dori as the producer!).
DB: There are many… but I love when Kenneth attributes his great success in business and social impact to having “unrealistic expectations.” Whether it’s taking on HIV/AIDS or mental health, Kenneth sets extremely ambitious goals and doesn’t look up until solid impact is achieved. And then, of course, he dives right back in because there’s so much more to do… always.
The Hamptons International Film Festival is coming up. Tell us about this decision to bring the film to the Hamptons and what you look forward to most at the festival.
KC: As a New Yorker, it’s exciting to have the film screen at this festival, and they have created such a wonderful, supportive community there. I’m looking forward to seeing the film in a theater, and assuming I’m not lost for words, being able to speak to the audience afterward.
DB: HIFF is exceptional. The audience is deeply discerning and diverse. Its profound commitment to cutting-edge programming, intimate community engagement, and fierce social impact makes HIFF an ideal place to launch our film into the world. I can’t wait!
What do you hope viewers will take away from the film?
DB: Kenneth and the work of Kenneth Cole Production is deeply inspiring. Their commitment to “cause” is profound, fierce, and authentic. In the film, Kenneth talks about the “gift” of having “purpose” in your life. How it elevates everything. I so hope our film audiences will leave inspired… eager to find deeper “purpose” in their own lives.
KC: Since the beginning of my career, I have had this passion for social impact and a determination to make a difference. I want viewers to be inspired to spark social awareness and change in their own lives and to help others. I am also hopeful that audiences will want to learn more about The Mental Health Coalition and how to get involved. I am really proud of the amazing work that we are doing at MHC, and there are so many meaningful ways to engage with our resources and initiatives. Early in my career, I didn’t believe that philanthropy and business could co-exist. However, I have come to believe that they are mutually dependent and the proverbial hand that feeds each other.
