2024 | United States of America | Documentary

DROP DEAD CITY - NEW YORK ON THE BRINK IN 1975

  • English - 103 mins
  • Director | Peter Yost, Michael Rohatyn
  • Writer | -
  • Producer | Peter Yost, Michael Rohatyn

STATUS: Completed

This film is currently not available.   

Set in 1970s New York City, this gripping documentary explores the city’s descent into financial chaos, leading to the infamous 1975 fiscal crisis. Once a haven for working-class people, thanks to strong unions and government subsidies, NYC plunged into economic freefall when audits exposed a budget crisis, leading to layoffs, white flight, and surging poverty. As banks refused aid, President Ford famously told the city to “drop dead.” Featuring firsthand accounts from former city officials, vibrant archival footage, and a killer soundtrack, this suspenseful film captures the drama, grit, and resilience of a city on the edge.

fiscal crisis financial chaos working-class struggle unions economic
Playlists