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Overview
This film explores the rich history of one of the oldest family-run businesses in Provincetown, Massachusetts, SPIRITUS Pizza and Ice Cream. It highlights the challenges faced by the business, the queer community, and the AIDS crisis, all against the backdrop of the conservative Puritanical attitudes in the town during the 1970s and 1980s.
Michael S. Koehler
Director Biography & Statement
Michael S. Koehler was born and raised in Babylon, NY, and attended college at Rochester Institute of Technology for photography. After 25 years as a photographer—working between New York City, Cape Cod, and New Orleans—Michael discovered the perfect subject and story for his first full-feature documentary: SPIRITUS Pizza and Coffee Bar in Provincetown, MA.
Having lived in Provincetown, Massachusetts for thirteen summers, Michael developed an appreciation for Spiritus Pizza and the diverse individuals who work there. Situated in the heart of a predominantly queer community, both Spiritus Pizza and its patrons have faced challenges from town officials and residents. In spite of that, has remained a vibrant epicenter of activity, resilience, and deep-rooted history in Provincetown.
In his debut documentary feature, Michael felt a strong urge to capture and document Spiritus Pizza’s unique story, which intertwines with the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. This film serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of a beloved institution, its role in the town’s history, and its significance within a changing social landscape.
Michael plans to return to Cape Cod this summer to turn his lens on the oyster farmers of Wellfleet, MA, while continuing to pursue his ultimate goal of directing a documentary film for a major production company.
a Film by 
Michael S.Koehler 
Project Type: DocumentaryRuntime: 63 minutesCompletion Date: January 1, 2025Production Budget: 15,000 USDCountry of Origin: United StatesLanguage: EnglishShooting Format: DigitalAspect Ratio: 16:9First-time Filmmaker: Yes
Project Type: DocumentaryRuntime: 63 minutesCompletion Date: January 1, 2025Production Budget: 15,000 USDCountry of Origin: United StatesLanguage: EnglishShooting Format: DigitalAspect Ratio: 16:9First-time Filmmaker: Yes
Project Type: DocumentaryRuntime: 63 minutesCompletion Date: January 1, 2025Production Budget: 15,000 USDCountry of Origin: United StatesLanguage: EnglishShooting Format: DigitalAspect Ratio: 16:9First-time Filmmaker: Yes
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