One October

I found this documentary at my local library and I'm glad I did. At only 56 mins. in length and directed by Rachel Shuman, this is a fascinating film combined with spectacular cinematography of New York City. Shot in October of 2008, as the Great Recession was sweeping across the world and the Presidential Election between Barack Obama and John McCain was looming, WFMU radio host Clay Pigeon took to the streets to get a feel of what people were thinking and feeling at that time. The editing of the doc, also by Shuman, was very effective as each interviewee had lots of engaging and, at times, humorous things to say about their lives and current events, as well as an underlying theme of the film of the gentrification and loss of neighborhoods in the city. These interviews are combined with colorful and haunting scenes of parades, parks, ceremonies, and just everyday street scenes. Overall, I would highly recommend this brief and engaging film.