![AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: BLACKOUT cover image AMERICAN EXPERIENCE: BLACKOUT cover image](https://www.kidsfirst.org/kidsfirst/images/db/titles/214247.jpg)
The night the lights went out back in July 1977 was hot, and steamy with temperatures running close to 100 degrees.
At this time, New York City was going through some tough financial times: high unemployment, budget cuts, and restricted services. It was the most severe downturn in the city of New York's history.
A severe thunderstorm led to a lightning strike on Con Edison and took out all power lasting for 25 hours. At 9:30 at night, subways, street lights, traffic lights, "the city that never sleeps" came to a halt.
A Tale of Two Cities - We are shown that in the middle class and more upwardly mobile areas, there was good spirits, partying in restaurants at candle light, while in the more struggling and neglected neighborhoods, the poor and hungry took to the streets. The criminal element was the first to break in and loot mom and pop neighborhood stores, followed by those without a criminal record and in need, taking advantage as well. From big ticket items like televisions, washing machines and refrigerators to staples like groceries and clothing, the film comments "these lower class neighborhood residents were at the top for a brief moment."
Some devastated areas, didn't recover for another 15 years. Whole blocks were taken out, with store owners who did not return.
A sad commentary of a social order broken down - a city separate and unequal. Although the city has gone through more prosperous times since, this true to life documentary gives us a lesson of what could happen again.
A very well done historical documentary, I give it 5 stars for 12 years of age to adult.
Reviewed by Terry S., KIDS FIRST! adult juror.
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