Films/DVD Asylum

"New York:" Ric Burns does an amazing job (as usual…) telling the story of the modern world's

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greatest metropolis. NO American should neglect this documentary masterwork because it's really the story of America.
Our first capital (George W's [the first one] inauguration was in its City Hall) has had an intriguing history, playing a key role in every major series of events in our history, from the earliest colonial period through the present.
The segment on immigration was enlightening; at the beginning of the 19th century, when numbers reached far beyond what they previously had, the arguments against allowing this "refuse" and the results of "opening the sewer" to "pollute" America with the failures and trash of other continents sounds familiar, doesn't it?
But that experiment is over: the energy those folks brought with them, their zeal and ethic, borne of unlimited hope, transformed this nation and made NYC the greatest modern city, surpassing London, Berlin, and Paris in a few short years.
The Grid system; the Brooklyn Bridge; Boss Tweed; J. P. Morgan; Central Park; the contributions and impact of the hated Irish---- no matter how much you think you know about these things, these DVDs will increase your knowledge: and it's hard for words alone to convey what the excellent photographs and early short movie footage does.
Lastly, the commentators, historians and artists alike, provide insights, fascinating details, and local color that immeasurably adds to the delight of the film.
Highest rating possible!

Edits: 02/14/14

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