In Film, Sometimes the Greatest Drama Is Offscreen

""Cinematic Immunity" offers a workers'-eye view of Hollywood on the Hudson, revealing the intricate dynamics of filmmaking in New York City from 1954 to 9/11."

"The book is a labor of love, portraying the world in which Nirenberg, a scenic artist, has built his career through the voices of crew members."

"Through nearly four hundred pages and a hundred and fifty interviews, the book captures the essence of filmmaking, showcasing the stress and negotiations of daily life on set."

"These recollections are more than mere anecdotes; they highlight the artistic and social stakes involved in the filmmaking process, making it a compelling read."

Michael Lee Nirenberg's oral history, "Cinematic Immunity," focuses on the experiences of crew members in New York filmmaking from 1954 to 9/11. It provides a workers'-eye view of the filmmaking process, highlighting the interpersonal, administrative, and technical aspects involved. Through 150 interviews, the book captures the labor and passion behind iconic films and TV shows shot in New York City. The anecdotes and insights reveal the artistic and social stakes of filmmaking, emphasizing the daily challenges faced by crew members in their work environment.

Read at The New Yorker