NEW YORK'S SKYROCKETING URBAN ELEVATION
Having overcome the urban challenges and financial crises of the previous decade, New York has set a new course in its ongoing transformation of the urban landscape. The city's initiatives have triggered a boom in new constructions aimed at attracting (tech) businesses and visitors who were previously uninterested in the city. As the economy gradually rebounds, a "hustle culture" rose from a renewed sense of high ambition among those seeking success.
Cover photo: Birdman (2014)
As the decade unfolded, New York City underwent a transformation where its quaint coffee shops, diners, pizzerias, and small stores gave way to the dominance of large chain retailers such as Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, and H&M.
These names, which were familiar to Americans from outside the city, replaced the charming local establishments. Many areas like Times Square, The High Line, and Hudson Yards expanded rapidly to cater to the growing influx of mass tourism, enhancing the city's entertainment offerings.
At the same time of these changes, the city experienced a construction boom, reshaping its skyline with the emergence of numerous luxurious high-rise buildings extending beyond the traditional neighborhoods of Manhattan. DUMBO and Downtown Brooklyn, in particular, witnessed a surge in new residential constructions. The city's ever-changing skyline offers opportunities for businesses and individuals with a hustler's mindset to engage in property investment, contributing to hyper-gentrification.
While New York successfully overcame challenges from the previous decade, this resurgence came at a cost – the city's distinctive character and offerings became diluted, leaving a somewhat flavorless experience for its residents. Despite the wealth that drove these developments, the benefits were still in favor of the commercial landscape since a staggering 21% of Manhattan's residents lived below the federal poverty threshold. This makes the economic disparities, as described in previous decades, more extreme than ever before.
The Hudson Yards (Between Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen in Manhattan), developed to cater to the growing influx of mass tourism.
Downtown Brooklyn rapidly gentrified from a typical Brooklyn neighborhood to a high-rise rich urban environment.
DUMBO
Brooklyn neighborhood which witnessed a surge in new luxurious commercial and residential buildings.
Williamsburg
Brooklyn neighborhood that went into an overdrive of gentrification after it shifted from industrial to ultra-trendy.
A source for film inspiration
IGNITING THE POWER OF HUSTLE IN NYC
During this decade, the city's role as a tech and startup hub grew significantly as it noticeably grew its influence on various aspects of life in New York. Innovations in tech, including the rise of tech startups, co-working spaces, social media and smart city initiatives, ignited a "hustle" culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that has inspired many filmmakers in the way they tell and distributed stories.
The definition of hustle culture is not new to the fast paced and competitive working culture of New York. New Yorkers are often characterized by their ambitious and determined nature. It has contributed to the city's success and its international reputation. But during this decade the city saw so many new and more attractive opportunities, that hustle culture gained a boost in visibility and influence.
For starters, the growth of the tech industry and startups in this decade contributed to a growth in hustle culture. Co-working spaces, incubators, and accelerators became more widely available, providing environments that resonated with ambitious people.
The rise of social media platforms during this period facilitated the amplification of personal and professional brands. Individuals, especially in creative and entrepreneurial fields, used platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to showcase their hustle.
And lastly, the gig economy continued to grow, with more people enjoying a stable economy that encouraged to start freelance work and side hustles. The idea of juggling multiple projects and income streams became increasingly normalized.
Flatiron District
Dense concentration of startups and venture-backed companies. Often referred to as 'Sillicon Alley'
Hudson Yards
Newer corporate tech hub, backed by massive real estate investment.
While hustle culture has positive aspects, such as encouraging ambition and resilience, it has also been criticized for fostering a workaholic mindset, contributing to stress, burnouts, and downplaying the importance of work-life balance.
In the film Birdman (2014), we see an excellent reflection of this fast-paced, continuous pressure. The film explores the challenges faced by a former Hollywood actor as he attempts to revitalize his career by staging a Broadway play. It touches on themes of ambition and competition.
In Uncut Gems 2019 we see a jeweler in an intense, fast-paced world. The protagonist's ambitions and willingness to take significant risks to achieve success align with the characteristics of the 'hustle culture.'
And in The Intern (2015) elements of a modern workplace in the city, ambition, entrepreneurship, and adapting to the fast-paced world of e-commerce, depict the New York hustle culture as well.
2010 – 2019
2010's hits
2000's hits
1970 – 1980
Man On Wire
A documentary that chronicles Philippe Petit's high-wire walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in 1974.
World Trade Center, Manhattan
2019
The Farewell
The story of a Chinese-American young woman navigating cultural differences and a terminal diagnosis of her grandmother.
2011
Detachment
This film explores the challenges faced by a substitute teacher (Adrien Brody) in a troubled urban school.
2020
The King Of Staten Island
Don Johnston receives an anonymous letter from a former lover informing him that he has a son who may be looking for him.
THE SAFDIE BROTHERS' RAW LOVE LETTERS TO THE CITY
2/2
Benny Safdie: Director, producer, actor, writer, cinematographer and brother of Josh.
1/2
Josh Safdie: Director, producer, actor, writer, cinematographer and brother of Benny.
Born and raised in NYC, the Safdie Brothers gained a deep understanding of the city's pulse as reflected in their raw, authentic films. Starting as college students, they embraced a DIY ethos, 'hustling' all aspects of filmmaking themselves – from writing, directing, acting to cinematography and editing. Their limited resources led to their signature handheld shots which feel intimate and incredibly immersive at the same time. Despite humble beginnings, these films with raw portraits of New York City's underbelly and diverse characters became some of the most influential films during this decade.
With an anxious sense of urgency, grittiness and busy streets, lit with neon lights, Good Time (2017) reminds us of those raw movies which I covered in the 70's decade. This film, starring Robert Pattinson, brings back a ruggedness to the screen which was achieved with some of the very same methods that were applied in shooting films like The French Connection (1979) and Dog Day Afternoon (1975). It includes limiting lighting, shaky cameras, shooting without permits and using the public as extras.
These elements reintroduce the unfiltered, gritty, and authentic portrayals of the city, but within a slightly more contemporary context that resonates closely with urban society. The brothers commit themselves wholeheartedly to their films, delving deep into the worlds they depict by doing extensive research and engaging directly with real-life subjects. This immersive approach to filmmaking has earned them recognition as 'Immersive Filmmakers'.
Robert Pattinson in Good Time (2017)
The Safdies and A24 –The blueprint for contemporary independent film power
Good Time (2017) marked the second collaboration between the brothers and the production and distribution company A24. Based and founded in 2012 in NYC, A24 is known for its focus on independent cinema and its commitment to supporting innovative and boundary-pushing filmmakers. The company seeks out bold and unconventional projects, often taking risks on emerging talent and unconventional storytelling formats. This often means providing filmmakers with creative freedom and support to realize their vision.
Some of A24's most notable films include Moonlight (2016), which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, Lady Bird (2017), The Florida Project (2017), Hereditary (2018), The Farewell (2019), and of course, Uncut Gems (2019) by the Safdie brothers.
Together, the Safdie brothers and A24 have proven that original and innovative storytelling can be a strong counterforce after a period where big, franchise Hollywood budgets have been dominating the film industry.
“We have to 'fight back stronger' against movies as content... It’s gotta come from the filmmakers themselves. And you’ll have, you know, the Safdie brothers, and you’ll have Chris Nolan, you know what I mean?”
Martin Scorsese, film director
Notable films by the Safdie brothers
2013
Lenny Cooke
The number-one ranked high school basketball player in America. His fall from grace will be remembered.
2014
Heaven Knows What
A young woman struggles with heroin, her boyfriend and suicidal thoughts.
2017
Good Time
After a robbery lands his brother in prison, Connie moves through NYC's underworld to get his brother out of jail.
2019
Uncut Gems
A fast-talking New York City jeweler risks everything in hope of staying afloat financially.
2010 – 2019
2014
Highlighted film
BIRDMAN
A vivid reflection of the fast-paced world of New York's entertainment scene with topics such as ambition, identity and artistic integrity. The story of Riggan Thomson's struggle to rebrand himself as a serious actor, serves as a metaphor for the constant reinvention required in this cutthroat urban environment and its relentless demands.
In a non-stop rhythm, the story follows Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton), a washed-up actor known for his past portrayal of a superhero named Birdman. Set in the bustling Theater District of New York City, the film explores Riggan's desperate attempt to reignite his fading career by staging a Broadway play. As Riggan grapples with the pressures of artistic validation, his personal and professional life intertwines, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. Against the backdrop of New York's fast-paced culture, Riggan's quest for success and validation unfolds, revealing the complexities of fame, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of artistic integrity.
The film's innovative single-shot style and metafictional narrative add multiple layers to the story, offering a bitter commentary on the the human desire for success and recognition in a city that never sleeps.
Riggan Thomson (Michael Keaton) in his changing room with a Birdman poster in the background.
Mike (Ed Norton) and Riggan (Michael Keaton) in New York's Theatre District.
A SINGLE CONTINUOUS SHOT THAT NEVER PAUSES TO BREATH
One of the most remarkable features of Birdman is the illusion of a single continuous shot that runs throughout the entire film. While it was achieved through clever editing and hidden cuts, the movie gives the impression of being filmed in one uninterrupted take.
The single continuous shot style serves as a powerful metaphor for the relentless pressure and pace of the New York entertainment industry, embodying the broader mentality of the city and its people. Along with this style of shooting, most of the film is accompanied with the sounds of a jazz drummer, amplifying the feelings of urgency and pressure that Riggan is experiencing.
To create an entire film that shows as one single cut for the viewer, it required meticulous planning for all pieces of the production to come together simultaneously. This included advanced camera and editing techniques, sound design to match the takes, close collaboration with cinematography and more like the examples below.
Hidden Cuts
Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu and cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki orchestrated the film with strategically placed cuts, often blending scenes together seamlessly. These cuts are disguised through the movement of the camera, characters, or objects, making the transitions nearly imperceptible.
Long Takes
Many scenes in Birdman are composed of long, unbroken takes that last several minutes. These extended shots contribute to the feeling of continuity and intensity.
Stabilized Camera
The filmmakers used a stabilized camera rig to smoothly navigate through the elaborate and confined spaces of the theater where much of the film takes place. This allowed for fluid movement and contributed to the illusion of a single shot.
Practical Lightning
The film relied on natural and practical lighting, such as the lights within the theater, to minimize the need for visible cuts during transitions.
Detailed Rehearsals
The actors and crew underwent extensive rehearsals to precisely time their movements and lines, ensuring that the transitions between scenes would be seamless.
Edit & Motion Matching
Editors used motion matching techniques to ensure that the movement of characters and the camera in one shot smoothly transitioned into the next. This involved matching rhythm and pace of the performances and camera movements across different shots.
The single shot film was so meticulously planned that it only took two weeks to edit the film
SET IN THE THEATRE DISTRICT, A SYMBOL FOR PROFUSE CHANGE
New York City's Theatre District, internationally known as "Broadway", has undergone notable transformations over the years, and the 2010s were no exception. The district has historically been a cultural and entertainment hub, filled with iconic theaters, dazzling marquees, and a rich history of live performances. But, by the 2010s (as seens in Birdman) the area has become heavily commercialized to accommodate to large crowds of tourists.
The New York Theatre District, at the heart of Manhattan.
The district, starting from Times Square on 42nd street, extends several blocks up towards Central Park. This wasn't always the case as in the early 20th century, Broadway theaters were mainly in Union Square, but due to the growing popularity of Times Square, theaters started relocating to its current area. With these landmarks with international fame, the area has become one of the busiest tourist attractions in the entire city, making investments by the city and big commercial brands easily justifiable.
Mike (Ed Norton) inside of The Rum House bar.
Despite the dynamic changes that have swept through New York City's Theatre District over the years, a handful of spots have managed to preserve the district's original charm. These places now stand as nostalgic landmarks, maintaining a connection to the rich history of Broadway while serving as an escape from its bustling surroundings. In Birdman, we see such a place when Mike and Riggan step into The Rum House a classic brown bar right on 47th street, that has remained the same for over 40 years.
Riggan outside of the St. James Theatre.
Over the decades, the Theatre District and its Broadway shows have managed to keep their integrity amidst substantial changes in both New York City and in the way entertainment is being created and offered. Broadway shows have been offering famous titles such as Westside Story, Rent, Les Misérables and The Phantom of the Opera. As well as performances by Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, Denzel Washington and Julie Andrews and more.
Offerings of shows and performers like these, contributed to ongoing success of Broadway in the intersection of culture and commerce on the blocks of the Theatre District.
RIGGAN'S PURSUIT FOR SUCCESS AND VALIDATION, LIKE ANY OTHER NEW YORKER
Riggan Thomson's pursuit of success and validation in Birdman reflects the aspirational drive shared by many people in New York City, capturing the essence of the city's hustle culture.
Riggan (Michael Keaton), haunted by the shadow of his former, successful role of Birdman.
Riggan, a former Hollywood star known for portraying the superhero Birdman, seeks to reinvent himself as a serious actor by producing and starring in a Broadway play. He faces the relentless pressure to prove himself in the demanding world of live theater. This pressure leads him to questions of identity, artistic integrity, and the desire for recognition in an industry that can be both rewarding and unforgiving.
With New York's hustle culture, characterized by its fast-paced nature and the pursuit of ambitious goals, serves as the perfect environment for Riggan's story. The city's competitive atmosphere mirrors the challenges faced by those who try to succeed in their fields, whether it be in the arts, finance, tech, or any other industry where recognition and validation are desired.
4X
Win at the Academy Awards.
Best Picture
Best Director
Best Original Screenplay
Best Cinematography
The Birdman and the Batman, Michael Keaton's Cinematic Parallel in search of new success
In Birdman, Michael Keaton's parallel with his character Riggan Thomson is striking. Both the actor and the character achieved superhero stardom, notably with Keaton as Batman in the late '80s and early '90s. However, their careers slowed down afterward, experiencing fewer high-profile roles. Keaton's impact as Batman mirrors Riggan's portrayal of Birdman in the film
Michael Keaton as Batman in the late '80s and early '90s.
Keaton experienced a remarkable resurgence with the release of the film Birdman. It earned him numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film itself won the Academy Award for Best Picture, solidifying Keaton's place in the industry and making his comeback.
$18M
Production budget for Birdman.
$103M
Worldwide gross profit.
91%
Rotten Tomato score.
Director Alejandro G. Iñárritu
A masterclass in multi layered storytelling that blurs the lines between fiction and reality
Under Alejandro G. Iñárritu's direction, Birdman seamlessly intertwines the worlds of theater and film, blurring the lines between the real-life actor, Michael Keaton, and the fictional character he portrays, Riggan Thomson. The narrative unfolds in real-time without any cuts, providing viewers with an immersive experience that authentically mirrors the fast-paced culture of New York City. Iñárritu's incredible skill in navigating these connected dualities adds layers to the film, contributing to its thematic depth and narrative complexity.
Theatre District
Location of Riggan's Broadway theatre and its surroundings.
St. James Theatre
The theatre of Riggan's Broadway show.
Birdman
UNCUT GEMS
2019
Highlighted film
BIRDMAN
2014
Highlighted film
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IMDb
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FRANCES HA
2012
Highlighted film
Watch
IMDb
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UNCUT GEMS
2019
Highlighted film
Watch
IMDb
Spotify
A gritty and intense portrayal of New York City's hustle culture around the Diamond District. Howard "Howie" Ratner, a charismatic Jewish jeweler is on a relentless pursuit of wealth and success which drives him to take increasingly risky gambles. He embodies the archetype of the New York hustler, navigating a world where ambition, opportunism, and cutthroat competition intersect.
The film by the Safdie brothers, brings a cinematic rollercoaster that immerses viewers in the high-stakes world of the Diamond District, where wealth, ambition, and tension collide. At its center is an impressive performance by Adam Sandler who plays Howie, a jeweler with a penchant for risky business deals.
As Howie navigates his deals on diamonds, opals, watches and rings (while participating in high-stakes gambling on the side), the story unfolds with increasing intensity. It tells a story where every decision carries weight and consequences.
Through Howie and other characters, the film captures the cultural dynamics and familial ties that characterize the close-knit community of diamond dealers in the city. The traditions and business practices seen in the film reflect the heritage and shared experiences of Jewish individuals working in the industry. This portrayal highlights the intersection of cultural identity, ambition, and the pursuit of success in New York City.
Howie (Adam Sandler) navigating his risky deals.
HOWIE'S RELENTLESS HUSTLE FOR $$$
Howard (Adam Sandler) is portrayed as a true hustler, always on the lookout for the next big score or opportunity to make money. He thrives on the adrenaline rush of high-stakes gambling and speculative investments, constantly seeking ways to increase his wealth and status.
Howard moves through the New York City streets filled with people and flashing lights with a constant sense of urgency, navigating the city's bustling markets and back alleys in search of deals and opportunities. Specifically, most of the hustling is being done near his store (KMH), in the Diamond District, an area build upon wealth and luxury in which appearance is everything.
Howard walking on the busy Canal Street, Manhattan.
Diamond District, the location where Howard operates.
Howard's pursuit of wealth is also driven by a desire for social acceptance and validation. He surrounds himself with expensive possessions, celebrities and frequents exclusive clubs and events, seeking to elevate his status and be seen as a player in NYC's elite circles.
HOWIE'S DEALS ON SHINY, UNCUT ROCKS AND ICED OUT CLOCKS
$8,990
Opal Stone 13.88 Carat Natural Ethiopian Marquise loose Gemstone.
$16,450
Opal Stone Pear Shape 22.17 Carat Natural Ethiopian loose Gemstone.
$49,900
Opal Stone 38.92 Carat Natural Ethiopian Marquise loose Gemstone.
$13,500
Iced out Furby pendant, a KMH exclusive. Complete with hand-set blue cubic zirconia. Scares the shit out of people.
KMH (Howie's shop) specializes in high-end jewelry, offering a range of products including diamonds, watches, and other luxury items. The inventory includes both finished pieces and raw materials used for custom designs. This reflects the personalized and service-oriented approach that is common in the jewelry industry, particularly in upscale markets like the Diamond District.
Additionally, the shop showcases exclusive and rare items, including unique gemstones and one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces like the iced out Furby. These high-value items attract wealthy clients and collectors, but also require to operate under tight security measures, such as the bullet-proof, buzzing door we see in the film.
The KMH Diamond Grading Chart (made and sold by A24).
$1M
KMH / Howard's estimated value of the rare black opal.
$150K
KMH / Howard received $150K at the action house.
$5-15K
Estimated real life value of the rare black opal due too much un-useable rough surrounding.
The black opal and other unique pieces
The opal featured in Uncut Gems is a significant plot element that drives much of the film's narrative and symbolism. In the film, the opal is sourced from Ethiopia, a country known for producing high-quality black opals. Its exotic origin adds to its mystique and allure, making it a coveted and prized gemstone in the eyes of collectors and dealers.
Kevin Garnett inspecting the opal in the KMH store.
Howie transporting the opal to the auction house in a KMH case.
Production house A24 went through great lengths to represent custom jewelry from both KMH and the people around him. In addition to the iced out Furby, we see The Weekend wearing a custom made MJ pendant, Kevin Garnett wearing a custom 2008 Celtic Championship ring and Howie’s treasured 1973 Knicks NBA Championship ring.
Celtics championship ring. Held, and then pawned, by Howard as collateral for the uncut black opal.
Howie’s treasured 1973 Knicks NBA Championship ring, traded for the return of the Celtics ring on the left.
Gold-plated necklace depicting MJ suspended on crucifix. Worn by The Weeknd, pawned by Howard.
THE JEWISH COMMUNITY IN NEW YORK CITY'S DIAMOND DISTRICT
The Jewish community has a long history of involvement in the diamond trade in New York City, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Jewish immigrants from Europe (mainly Antwerp, Belgium) established themselves as diamond cutters, dealers, and traders. This expertise and cultural heritage are reflected in the film's portrayal of Howard Ratner (Howie) and other characters seen in the film.
The Diamond District in Manhattan, 1962.
The Diamond District (on 47th Street) functions as a tight-knit community within the larger fabric of New York City, with relationships and connections built on shared cultural heritage and business interests. This sense of closed community is reflected in the film through Howie's interactions with other jewelers, suppliers, and clients, as well as the cultural references and rituals depicted throughout the story.
Jewish individuals and families have played a significant role in the success and growth of the diamond industry in New York City. They have contributed to the city's reputation as a global center for diamond trading and manufacturing, with many prominent diamond companies and businesses owned and operated by Jewish families.
90%
Estimated percentage of diamonds in the United States that pass through the Diamond District.
$24B
Estimated annual sales across 2,400 business in the Diamond District.
New York City is home to one of the largest and most diverse Jewish populations in the world. The influence of Jewish people on New York goes far beyond the diamond and jewelry industry. For instance, making significant contributions to the cultural landscape of the city. From literature and theater to film, music, and cuisine, Jewish individuals and communities have played a vital role in shaping the cultural identity of New York City.
Benny Safdie, Adam Sandler and Josh Safdie.
The Safdie brothers spent over 10 years in preparation for Uncut Gems
Directors Josh and Benny Safdie always knew Adam Sandler was the only man who could play Howie. They first approached the actor back in 2012 for the role, but the A-lister turned down the brothers who, at that time, were not well-known outside the festival circuit. As their career progressed rapidly, the pieced for Uncut Gems finally came together for its shoot in 2018.
In total, the brothers spent over a decade working on the script before bringing it to the screen. The film became an instant success as it became A24's highest grossing film at the time of its release.
Diamond District
Where Howie does most of his trading.
Fountain on 6th Ave, Manhattan
Location where Howard gets thrown into the fountain.
Uncut Gems
FRANCES HA
2012
Highlighted film
Frances, a young woman navigating the challenges of adulthood, friendship, and artistic aspirations, grapples with the ups and downs of of the demanding life in New York, Through its intimate portrayal (all in black and white) of urban life and the quest for identity, Frances Ha offers a touching and relatable reflection on the human experience in the city at the time.
In this film directed by Noah Baumbach, transient stages of Frances Halladay's life in New York are vividly portrayed through scenarios with fluctuating circumstances. This includes constant changes in her apartment, struggles with financial instability, and pursuing a career in NYC's competitive world of dance.
The city’s vibrant yet challenging environment mirrors Frances' personal struggles and growth. With encounters of various setbacks and fleeting successes, Frances's story becomes a universal exploration of self-exploration, 'hustling', and resilience in the urban setting. Besides the occasional crisis in her ambition and identity, Frances simultaneously works through relationships with the people around her which come in the form of friendships, romantic and professional relationships.
Frances's vibrant living situation in the apartment on 22 Catherine St, (Chinatown), reflect both Frances' environment of opportunity as well as a testing ground for her personal endurance. The film ultimately portrays New York City as a colorful landscape where ambitions are pursued amidst an ever-changing urban landscape, resonating with anyone who has ever dared to chase their dreams in this highly competitive city.
Frances running and dancing as she passes the crossing on East Houston and Allan St.
Frances and Sophie in Bryant Park.
A QUARTER-LIFE CRISIS IN AN URBAN SETTING
The identity crisis
The career crisis
The relationship/friendship crisis
The financial crisis
The quarter-life crisis: a period of uncertainty and self-doubt experienced by people in their twenties as they navigate the transition from adolescence to further adulthood. In Frances Ha we see this as a central theme as Frances is navigating her way through the city while struggling with her career path and professional aspirations. She is dreaming of a dancing career but also lacks stable employment, which reflects in the lack of furniture in her apartment. At the same time, Frances' relationships with the people around her significant change, adding to more self doubt.
The career crisis
DREAMS OF A PROFESSIONAL DANCER IN NYC
Frances brings herself instant joy by dancing as she moves through the streets.
For Frances, dancing offers an escape from the harsh realities of her life. it gives her a temporarily way out from her struggles and insecurities. These moments of dancing seamlessly integrates into the fabric of daily life in the story, blurring the lines between performance and reality. Whether dancing in the streets, at a party, or in her apartment, Frances' movements reflect her emotional state and the rhythm of her life in New York City.
"Francis Ha is the most colorful colorless film I've ever seen."
@shawn2196 (Youtube comment, 7 years ago)
Frances' dreams of becoming a professional dancer symbolize her larger ambitions for success, fulfillment, and self-actualization. Despite facing numerous obstacles in her pursuit of this dream, dancing remains a constant source of inspiration and motivation for her throughout the film. For Frances it brings the color in a black and white reality.
The financial crisis
FRANCIS' APARTMENT IN CHINATOWN
The patchwork apartment in the film serves as a physical manifestation of the Francis' transient lifestyle and her journey of self-discovery in New York City. A few key aspects of the apartment and its significance in the film below.
The handwritten name above Frances' doorbell.
The apartment it located in the heart of Chinatown, Manhattan.
Frances's apartment finds itself in Chinatown. Living there means being immersed by the sights, sounds, and flavors of Chinese culture, from traditional tea houses to lively street festivals. The community is tightly knit, with a strong sense of identity and pride in its heritage. Despite the never ending developments in New York, Chinatown retains a sense of charm and authenticity, making it a unique place for Frances to call home.
Frances shares her apartment with her best friend Sophie.
The apartment is shared by Frances and her best friend Sophie at the beginning of the film, emphasizing the importance of their friendship and the sense of camaraderie they share. However, as the story progresses, Frances finds herself living alone in the apartment, highlighting her journey towards independence and self-reliance.
Temporary living situations reflect the transient lifestyle of Frances.
The apartment serves as a symbol of transition and change throughout the film. It witnesses the ebb and flow of Frances' relationships, aspirations, and personal growth, mirroring the ups and downs of her journey in New York City.
Creativity and resourcefulness are reflected by the mismatch of furniture in the apartment.
The apartment is characterized by its eclectic and mismatched furnishings, reflecting Frances' resourcefulness and creative spirit. Each piece of furniture, decor, and artwork seems to have been collected over time, giving the space a unique and lived-in feel.
The identity crisis
MODERN DAY SELF EXPLORATION
New York City is often seen as a place for self-discovery, reinvention and ambition. The other highlighted films above (Birdman and Uncut Gems) tell stories that touch upon those subject. Throughout Frances Ha, Frances goes through various phases of self-exploration too, trying to find her true identity and place in the world, while working on her dreams.
Frances and Sophie in conversation on a subway train.
Frances aspires to be a professional dancer.
The relationship/friendship crisis
Frances' evolving relationships, particularly her friendship with Sophie, highlight the transient and sometimes isolating nature of life in New York. The city's fast-paced environment can make it difficult to maintain close, long-term relationships. This sense of transient connections and the quest for meaningful relationships can contribute to an identity crisis, as individuals search for a sense of belonging and stability.
Greta Gerwig – actress, writer and director.
Greta Gerwig, a New York hustle success story
Similar to the character she portrays in Frances Ha, Greta Gerwin found her way to big success by pursuing her dreams in New York. She attended Barnard College, where she studied English and Philosophy. During her time in New York, Gerwig likely experienced firsthand the hustle culture and creative energy that lives in the city. Her experiences in New York likely informed her portrayal of Frances in, reflecting the struggles and aspirations of young artists trying to make it in the city.
Tompkins Square Park
Park in East Village where Frances and Sophie hang out and dance.
City Hall Park
Location of the scene with Frances and the fountain.
Frances Ha
Other notable films 2010 – 2019
2010
Blue Valentine
Though intimate and mostly domestic, the film features raw moments in Brooklyn and Manhattan, reflecting the emotional disintegration of a relationship.
IMDb
2013
The Wolf of Wall Street
A wild ride through the excess and glamour of NYC’s financial elite—its high-rises, lavish offices, and unchecked ambition.
IMDb
1992
Heaven Knows What
A raw and unfiltered look at life on Manhattan’s streets, documenting the raw edges of homelessness and addiction.
IMDb
2015
Begin Again
Set in SoHo and the East Village, this film follows a down-on-his-luck music exec and a budding singer-songwriter navigating the city’s indie music scene.
2016
Equity
A financial thriller set in the world of female investment bankers navigating Wall Street post-2008 crash, highlighting NYC’s tech IPO scene and gender dynamics.
2017
Good Time
A frenetic, night-long odyssey through Queens and Manhattan that captures the raw pulse and desperation of marginalized lives.
2017
The Meyerowitz Stories
A sharply observed family drama centered in Manhattan, exploring legacy, class, and estranged relationships across the city’s art and academic scenes.
2019
Marriage Story
Noah Baumbach's raw portrayal of a bi-coastal divorce, with much of the tension and legal drama unfolding across Brooklyn brownstones and Manhattan law offices
2019
The Report
While focused on Washington, its New York segments—especially around the media, legal, and public discourse scenes—reflect the city’s role in post-9/11 accountability culture.
1990
Goodfellas
The story of Henry Hill and his life in the mafia, covering his relationship with his wife and mob partners.
1981
Escape from New York
In 1997, when the U.S. president crashes into Manhattan, now a giant maximum security prison, a convicted bank robber is sent in to rescue him.
1990
Ghost
After a young man is murdered, his spirit stays behind to warn his lover of danger, with the help of a psychic
1992
Scent of a Woman
A prep school student needing money agrees to "babysit" a blind man, but the job is not at all what he anticipated.
1992
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
Kevin McCallister accidentally finds himself stranded in New York City - and last year's criminals are not far behind.
IMDb
1993
Six Degrees of Separation
An affluent NYC couple finds their lives touched by a mysterious young black man who is never quite who he says he is.
1993
A Bronx Tale
Intense drama about a boy torn between his tough, hard-working father and a violent yet charismatic crime boss.
1994
Crooklyn
Spike Lee's semi-autobiographical portrait of a school teacher, her stubborn musician husband and their kids living in Brooklyn in 1973.
1995
Rumble In The Bronx
A young man visiting and helping his uncle in New York City finds himself forced to fight a street gang and the mob with his martial art skills.
1997
The Devil's Advocate
An exceptionally-adept lawyer is offered a job at a high-end NYC law firm with a high-end boss--the biggest opportunity of his career to date.
1997
Donnie Brasco
An FBI undercover agent infiltrates the mob and finds himself identifying more with the Mafia life--at the expense of his regular one.
1997
As Good as It Gets
A single mother and waitress, an author, and an artist form an unlikely friendship after the artist is assaulted in a robbery.
1988
You've Got Mail
Businessman Joe Fox, and Kathleen Kelly, an independent bookstore owner, fall in love online while he unknowingly aims to put her shop out of business.
1989
Being John Malkovich
A puppeteer discovers a portal that leads literally into the head of movie star John Malkovich.
With a fiscal crisis around the corner, high unemployment and wealthy people escaping the city, there was a breakdown of social order in NYC
1970 – 1980
A WAVE OF ANARCHY
With a fiscal crisis around the corner, high unemployment and wealthy people escaping the city, there was a breakdown of social order in NYC
1980 – 1990
NEW BEGINNINGS
With a fiscal crisis around the corner, high unemployment and wealthy people escaping the city, there was a breakdown of social order in NYC
1990 – 2000
CULTURAL RENAISSANCE
With a fiscal crisis around the corner, high unemployment and wealthy people escaping the city, there was a breakdown of social order in NYC
2000 – 2009
CHALLENGE AND TRANSFORMATION
With a fiscal crisis around the corner, high unemployment and wealthy people escaping the city, there was a breakdown of social order in NYC
2010 – 2019
A GROWING CITY
With a fiscal crisis around the corner, high unemployment and wealthy people escaping the city, there was a breakdown of social order in NYC
2020 – 2029
A STAGNATING CITY (A.I + EXPERTS PREDICTED)
Made in NYC by Vinesh Gayadin – Learn more
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