All Of It: The Gritty Films of 60s and 70s New York – A Deep Dive into Cinematic History

Hosted by Alison Stewart, WNYC’s "All Of It" examines the vibrant and challenging cultural landscape of New York City during the transformative decades of the 1960s and 1970s. In this episode, released on March 31, 2025, Alison engages with film critic Jay Hoberman to explore how New York's unique environment shaped its cinematic output and left an indelible mark on the film industry.

Introduction and Episode Overview

Alison Stewart opens the episode with enthusiasm, highlighting the focus on New York City's cinematic portrayal in the late 60s and 70s. She sets the stage by mentioning the establishment of a new Criterion Channel series, Fun City: New York City Woos Hollywood, Flirts with Disaster, curated by Jay Hoberman. The episode promises insights into iconic films, influential filmmakers, and the socio-cultural backdrop that defined this era of filmmaking.

Guest Introduction: Jay Hoberman

Jay Hoberman, a renowned film critic known for his long tenure at the Village Voice and his upcoming book Everything is Now: The 1960s New York Avant-Garde, Primal Happenings, Underground Movies, Radicals, Pop, joins Alison to provide expert analysis. His deep connection to New York's film scene and his academic background make him an ideal guest to unpack the complexities of the period's cinema.

The Office of Film, Theater and Broadcasting

At [00:37], Alison introduces the topic by mentioning Mayor John Lindsay’s pivotal move in 1966 to establish the Office of Film, Theater and Broadcasting. Jay Hoberman elaborates on Lindsay’s role, emphasizing how the mayor "cut through a lot of red tape" to make New York more accessible for filmmakers ([03:26]). This initiative was crucial in fostering artistic and economic growth, allowing filmmakers to capture the authentic grit and vibrancy of the city.

The Criterion Channel Series: Fun City

Alison highlights the new Fun City series ([02:53]), curated by Jay Hoberman, which features a selection of New York-made films from the 60s and 70s. These include crime classics like "Dog Day Afternoon" and "The Taking of Pelham 123", blaxploitation gems such as "Cotton Comes to Harlem", and even unconventional entries like an unlikely Clint Eastwood western set in the city. The series aims to celebrate and preserve the cinematic heritage of New York during a tumultuous yet creatively fertile period.

The Allure of New York City for Filmmakers

When Alison asks why filmmakers were drawn to New York after Lindsay’s reforms ([04:12]), Hoberman responds that the location authenticity of NYC was irreplaceable. He notes, "You can't build this on a movie set," underscoring the city's unique atmosphere that filmmakers sought to capture. This genuine backdrop allowed for more realistic and impactful storytelling, setting New York apart as a natural character in its own right.

Impact on Hollywood and Filmmaking Trends

Hoberman discusses how New York's embrace by filmmakers influenced broader trends in Hollywood ([04:28]). The move towards location shooting was inspired by the gritty realism of New York films, leading to movies like "Easy Rider" embracing cross-country shoots. Additionally, the toughness and brutality depicted in New York crime films provided a new narrative depth that Hollywood began to emulate.

Spotlight on Key Films from the 60s and 70s

Midnight Cowboy

A listener call from Jonathan ([06:35]) brings up "Midnight Cowboy", which Hoberman acknowledges as a seminal film despite not being part of the new Criterion series ([07:31]). He points out that films like this, often shot by foreign directors such as John Schlesinger, offer a unique outsider’s perspective on New York, enriching the city's cinematic portrayal.

Fatso

Chris from Brooklyn ([08:21]) shares his nostalgia for "Fatso", a comedy capturing the Italian American experience. Hoberman appreciates the film's authentic representation of family dynamics and cultural nuances, highlighting its enduring appeal through personal anecdotes shared by listeners.

The 7 Ups and Pelham One Two Three

Robert from the Bronx ([11:46]) praises "The 7 Ups", a police drama that vividly portrays Manhattan through chase scenes and authentic neighborhood settings. Hoberman compares it to "The Taking of Pelham 123", emphasizing the latter's authentic depiction of New York’s subway system and the complexities of managing a bustling metropolis ([27:01]).

Dog Day Afternoon

Al Pacino’s performance in "Dog Day Afternoon" is lauded by Alison ([10:46]), with Hoberman highlighting both Pacino’s embodiment of New York’s spirit and director Sidney Lumet’s mastery of the city’s urban landscape ([11:15]). This film exemplifies the raw and unapologetic portrayal of New York’s grit and resilience.

Panic in Needle Park

The discussion shifts to "Panic in Needle Park", which delves into the heroin addiction crisis on the Upper West Side. Hoberman describes the film as a stark portrayal of an open-air drug market, capturing the harsh realities and the pervasive sense of despair that characterized parts of New York during the era ([10:15]).

Blaxploitation Films: Definition and Examples

Alison inquires about blaxploitation films, leading Hoberman to define the genre ([21:49]). He traces its origins to independent productions like "Sweet Back's Bad Ass Song" before Hollywood mainstreamed films like "Shaft" and "Superfly". Hoberman commends "Cotton Comes to Harlem" and "Black Caesar" as standout examples, noting their authentic Harlem settings and cultural significance.

Listener Insights and Favorite Films

Throughout the episode, audience members share their favorite New York City films from the 60s and 70s, providing personal connections and diverse perspectives. Notable mentions include:

• "Fatso": Celebrated for its ethical portrayal of the Italian American experience ([08:21]).
• "The Taking of Pelham 123": Praised for its realistic depiction of the subway system ([26:56]).
• "Law and Disorder": Described as a unique police comedy that transitions into tragedy ([26:12]).

These listener interactions enrich the conversation, highlighting the enduring legacy and multifaceted impact of these films on both personal and cultural levels.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Alison wraps up the episode by reiterating the significance of Jay Hoberman’s contributions through the Fun City series and his insightful analysis of New York’s cinematic history. The discussion underscores how the films of the 60s and 70s not only captured the essence of New York City but also influenced broader filmmaking trends, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to resonate with audiences today.

For those interested in exploring these iconic films, the Criterion Channel’s Fun City: New York City Woos Hollywood, Flirts with Disaster series curated by Jay Hoberman is available to stream starting tomorrow. Share your favorite New York City movies from the 60s and 70s by calling WNYC at 212-433-9692.

Notable Quotes:

• Jay Hoberman [03:26]: "It really was Lindsay's idea. And what he did was he cut through a lot of red tape. It used to be impossible basically, to shoot on the street in New York."

• Jay Hoberman [04:28]: "They probably helped to stimulate location shooting in general. The New York crime films tended to be tougher, more brutal even, maybe just in the suggestion because you're shooting it on these actual mean streets."

• Jay Hoberman [21:49]: "Blaxploitation began with independent productions like 'Sweet Back's Bad Ass Song' and quickly evolved as Hollywood tried to capitalize with films like 'Shaft' and 'Superfly'."

• Jay Hoberman [15:18]: "Coming after this, he [Coppola] was, you know, he made one interesting movie, kind of a road film, and then he got roped into making 'Finian's Rainbow'. There’s not much in this that would lead you to the Godfather, except the locations and the feel for the city."

This episode of "All Of It" not only celebrates the rich cinematic history of New York City but also invites listeners to engage with their own memories and favorite films, fostering a communal appreciation for the city's cultural tapestry.