'Beyond the Boardwalk' tells redemption story of vicious attack on Long Island

NEW YORK (WABC) -- A new documentary tells the story of a vicious attack that triggered racial tensions in the Tri-State Area nearly two decades ago.

"Beyond the Boardwalk" is a project with a message of redemption that rings true today, as race, culture and politics reach a boiling point.

It is the story of a young black football star who was nearly beaten to death by a white athlete on Long Island. Remarkably, the two men became friends years later.

Eyewitness News anchor Rob Nelson spoke with director Matt Jablow and Jermaine Ewell, who is the subject of the film. Watch his interview in the video player above.