Renowned filmmakers Ric Burns and James Sanders have once again turned their lens on New York City, unveiling the latest episodes of their celebrated docuseries, *New York: A Documentary Film*. The fresh instalments, episodes nine and ten, made their debut on PBS on September 20, marking a significant return for the series that has captivated audiences since its inception in 1999.
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Having dedicated nearly three decades to exploring the intricate tapestry of one of the world’s most iconic cities, Burns and Sanders continue to be amazed by the stories embedded in New York’s ever-evolving landscape. Burns, who serves as the director and co-writer, reflects on the remarkable richness of history that lies beneath the surface of the bustling metropolis. In particular, he highlights the Financial District, an area steeped in historical significance.
“It is difficult to find another part of New York so deeply intertwined with the past than the southern tip of Manhattan,” Burns explains. “It is now recognised as a global centre for finance with its impressive skyline, but it was once covered in thick marshlands. To this day, it remains layered with centuries of history, housing some of the oldest skyscrapers in the world.”
Burns goes on to outline the site’s historical context, noting its role as a pivotal location in American history. “This is where the first Dutch settlers erected a wall to ward off Native Americans and English settlers, which gives Wall Street its name. It is also the site of the African Burial Ground, a resting place for enslaved Africans who contributed to the city’s foundation. Moreover, George Washington took his oath of office here, and it is where Alexander Hamilton, a cornerstone of the American economic system, is interred.”
He further illustrates how this historic site has evolved over time, with physical changes mirroring its storied past. “The landscape has been built upon time and time again, expanding not just upward but outward as landfill extended Manhattan into the surrounding waters,” he remarks. “Visiting this area after sunset allows you to truly feel the heartbeat of American history.”
In contrast, co-writer Sanders also shares his insights on a less conventional location worthy of recognition. “One of my favourite spots in the city is the southern tip of Roosevelt Island,” he reveals. “Reimagined as Four Freedoms Park in the early 2010s, it stands as a poignant tribute to one of New York’s greatest figures, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. From this beautifully crafted terrace, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn, visitors are treated to stunning views of the East River.”
Sanders elaborates on the transformation that Roosevelt Island has undergone in recent decades. From its history as a site dominated by institutions such as mental asylums and hospitals, it has evolved into a vibrant residential community. Under the guidance of former Mayor Michael Bloomberg, it has also become home to the prestigious Cornell Tech campus, a testament to New York’s adaptability and forward-thinking ethos.
As he describes the view from the park, Sanders paints a vivid picture of the contrasting cityscapes. “To your right, you’ll see the historic midtown Manhattan skyline, while to your left, a modern skyline emerges along the Queens waterfront, showcasing an array of residential towers and green spaces that have developed since 9/11.”
Notably, Burns expresses fascination in how New Yorkers have creatively repurposed elements of the city’s heritage. “It’s extraordinary to witness how the city is continually deconstructed and reconstructed, not only through the ages but even within the last 25 years,” he notes. “Some developments have taken place without completely diminishing the past.”
He cites the example of the High Line, a former elevated railway that has been transformed into a public park. “Consider the High Line: once a rusting relic, it is now one of New York City’s most exhilarating public spaces,” he says. “We are sometimes able to forge the future by holding onto the past in ways no one could have imagined.”
However, for Burns, the true essence of New York City lies not in its renowned landmarks or parks but in the diverse community of people who inhabit it. “What truly makes New York exceptional is that it stands as a place where everyone feels they belong,” he asserts. “While it can be a fiercely competitive environment, it does not impose questions of origin or belief. Ultimately, it is a home for all.”
He continues, “This unique aspect of the city has not only established it as the birthplace of American capitalism but also as a cradle for American democracy. It remains one of the most creative, resilient, and hopeful places in the world.”
With the latest episodes of *New York: A Documentary Film* now airing on PBS, Burns and Sanders invite audiences to continue discovering the rich and evolving narratives that define the city. The resilience and spirit of New York serve as both a history lesson and a source of inspiration for viewers across the globe.