The City (1939)

"The City" is a groundbreaking 43-minute documentary from 1939 that offers a profound commentary on urban life in America during the transition from rural to industrialized living. Directed by Ralph Steiner and Willard Van Dyke, with a script by Lewis Mumford, the film is structured in three main segments:

Pre-Industrial America: The documentary begins with idyllic scenes of small-town life in the United States, showcasing a simpler, more community-oriented existence where life moves at a slower pace, emphasizing harmony with nature and close-knit family structures.
The Modern City: The narrative then shifts to the hustle and bustle of the industrialized, commercial city. This segment vividly portrays the chaos, pollution, and overcrowding of urban environments, highlighting the detrimental effects on family dynamics, child-rearing, and individual well-being. The film critiques the loss of community, the stress of urban living, and the degradation of the environment due to unchecked industrial growth.
The New City: In response to these issues, "The City" proposes a vision of a return to simplicity through the depiction of Greenbelt, Maryland, a New Deal project. This "new city" is designed with the intention of fostering a healthier, more balanced lifestyle, where urban planning prioritizes green spaces, community, and the well-being of families. It serves as an example of how urban development could be reimagined to support human values and environmental sustainability.

With its innovative use of montage, music by Aaron Copland, and a compelling narrative, "The City" not only documents a pivotal moment in American urban history but also advocates for a thoughtful reconsideration of how cities should grow and function, emphasizing the importance of community, family, and nature in urban design.