On the subject of New York…a few friends have recommended Netflix films to me recently, both of which happen to center in the city.
In chronological order of my viewing them…
Frances Ha – black & white indie
An endearing, self-depricating story about a struggling late twenties dance teacher in Brooklyn. Skirts the line between artificial feel-good and depressing, with a realistic finale. A bit melancholy, but not oppressively so.
Scatter My Ashes at Bergdorf’s – fabulous documentary, latest in a series of films about the fashion industry in NYC
What’s not to like about such a title? Sounds like a dialogue line from The Devil Wears Prada or First Wives Club.
The film follows a number of story lines that surround the famed department store – including the designers sold inside it and the buyers that decide who to carry, the personal shoppers, the window decorators, and the family that founded the store.
And of course, the customers. That is- every social climber who ever stepped foot on the island of Manhattan. I feel
My favorite figure in the film was Linda Fargo, the store’s head buyer. She reminds me of so many people I know, and from her interviews and candid recordings, just sounds like a fulfilling, inspiring friend to have.
Check out both of these productions, available for free on Netflix.
Next up on my list: Versailles ’73.