DOCUMENTARY SHORTS BLOCK
The streets and subways of New York City are filled with a colorful variety of performers, panhandlers, and personalities, and there have been some films based around this environment. The whole ecosystem of New York City thrives on artistic expression and people performing, and it’s a shame that Joe Zakko’s documentary short feels like a missed opportunity.
Joe Zakko’s documentary short takes us through the streets of New York City, exploring the various stops in the city and their personalities. Along the way we meet bucket drummers, train cart break dancers, and even a singer who belts out soul songs for a few bucks. There’s a lot to like about “Subway Stops” it’s just sad that the movie feels like a missed opportunity. There’s so much material that one could draw from this environment and climate, but Zakko instead opts for experimental at times.
There’s a lot more abstract shots of train cars and subway stops, and just not enough focus on the life blood of the city that are these artists. There’s not a lot of understanding about them, or even a glimpse at the back stories behind these people, save for some prep shots of them setting up their performances. I wish we’d have gotten to know these individuals, including the beggars that stand on the sides as crowds whiz by. All in all Joe Zakko’s direction is tight, but his film leaves a lot to be desired substantially.
The Slamdance Film Festival runs Digitally and In-Person from January 20th to January 29th.