It takes a lot for something to be so interesting on television or online that I can sit through it for longer than ten minutes. I just don't have the ability to sit for that long; I never really have. So, when a documentary comes along that is just that good, I feel the need to recommend said video. That's where this Facebook series comes up.
Humans of New York is a film project by Brandon Stanton taking place within the barriers of one of the largest, most diverse cities in the world. The series is composed of over 1,200 stories of random strangers Stanton comes across. Many of the stories were initially published on social media with a picture and the story as the caption underneath, before being turned into eight different compilation episodes, all of which were aired on Facebook this fall.
From struggling musicians, to new fathers, to regular teenagers, every characteristic of a human imaginable is covered by the interviews. Those who Stanton finds can either discuss basic things, such as where they came from or what they do for a living, or more "touchy" subjects, like traumatic events, sex, and illness.
I myself am not from New York City. I grew up about six hours from Manhattan, and I've only been there a handful of times. That being said, however, I've always had a high interest in the people themselves, and learning about different types of backgrounds from diverse places.
The films and interviews are recorded all over the city and in surrounding suburbs. Many of these locations are known for how diverse their cultures are, and for being host to a variety of socio-economic levels.
Due to this, New York makes itself a fantastic spot for research based on inner-city relations and cultural hubs. The mini-series itself is also a great way for a New York foreigner, such as myself, to learn about the issues that city-dwellers face. Several of those interviewed for the series face issues due to immigration policy, civil rights, and blue collar jobs, among others. This makes it a series that discusses issues that, especially in today's world, we find ourselves timid about discussing as a result of our political climate. I find the documentary to be a solid outlet for those with a strong desire to discuss these topics.
Those who would like to know more about the series, or read/watch the interviews, can follow the account on Instagram or on Facebook under the name Humans of New York.
