"Drop Dead City" Spotlights a Lost Era of Liberal Government
Briefly

"Drop Dead City" is an insightful documentary directed by Peter Yost and Michael Rohatyn, focusing on the fiscal crisis that engulfed New York City during the mid-1970s. Through a meticulous reconstruction of events, it traces the crisis's origins, immediate effects, and the complex resolution process while emphasizing its philosophical implications on governance and society. The film reflects on President Ford's responses during the crisis, notably his 'DROP DEAD' comment, which incited significant protests and public backlash, ultimately leading to essential federal assistance that rescued the city from its financial brink.
The documentary "Drop Dead City" reconstructs the New York City fiscal crisis of the 1970s, illustrating the political and social complexities that led to its resolution.
The film showcases how President Ford's infamous 'DROP DEAD' statement spurred protests and shifted public sentiment towards accepting a federal bailout for the struggling city.
Read at The New Yorker
[
|
]