Movies

With the depressing story in Patriot Acts followed by the several tragedies that occurred in Midnight Cowboys it is clear that this was not meant to be a very positive week. At least On the Waterfront had a positive ending even if it took a few deaths and beatings to get there. Despite the depressing content, I think it was very beneficial to see a darker side of New York.

I am particularly happy that we saw these movies right before reading the chapters in Caitlin's book. Before learning about the effects of gentrification it is important for us to know the New York City of yesterday and today. Midnight Cowboys showed us a shadier Time Square than the one we know today which was an adequate representation of many parts of Manhattan at that time. It also showed us how that clashed with the prim and perfect wealthy Upper East Side residents. Today this clash is fading because virtually all of Manhattan is in the process of being gentrified or will soon be swallowed up in this process along with many parts of the outer boroughs as well.

While On the Waterfront was technically in Hoboken, what happened there could have easily been a story in Brooklyn or Hells Kitchen. These union or political "Bosses" who were really just gangsters had significant power from at least the 1890's straight through till the 1960's (complete estimate). It is an important part of a larger history of corruption in New York. It is important to remember a fading part of history especially as many warehouses and factories on the water are closed down every year and the docks are beginning to look more and more like ghost towns. Also, the corruption of these little unions can and should be compared to the corruption of those looking to gentrify and reshape New York City.