Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride

Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride is a fascinating documentary that underscores the history and politics surrounding Coney Island's amusement park, located in New York City. Premiering in 2012, this feature-length documentary is brought to life by director and producer, Amy Nicholson. The film pays tribute to Coney Island's Zipper ride but also gives voice to a provocative narrative about gentrification and power dynamics between business, politics and the local community.

The story begins with a focus on the Zipper ride, an adrenaline-fueled madcap twister that held its proud place amid the cacophony of thrilling rides, games and attractions of the iconic amusement park. The Zipper ride, for decades, had been the embodiment of the wild spirit of Coney Island, becoming synonymous with the infectious energy, excitement, and charm of the ever-popular tourist hotspot.

Nicholson masterfully uses the journey of the Zipper ride - from its hallowed standing as a crowd favorite to its eventual demise - as a narrative arc to unravel the deeper, murkier politics threading the fabric of Coney Island's amusement park. The film underlines the ongoing battle between city developers, who envisage transforming the park into a polished, upscale attraction, and the local operators and citizens who are desperate to preserve the authenticity of Coney Island that they hold dear.

The filmmaker, through heartfelt interviews, aptly captures the pulse of the community fearfully grappling with the relentless march of change. The film features Eddie Miranda, who flawlessly personifies the spirit of the local vendors. As the operator of the Zipper, Miranda becomes a metaphor for the working class, representing thousands affected by the imminent gentrification.

Nicholson uses intimate character portraits and striking imagery to explore the multi-layered tension resulting from this dramatic change. The cinematography by Jerry Risius, sensitively shot in a verité style, vividly captures the thrill of the rides, the charisma of the local vendors, and the existential struggle of a community facing disruption. The documentary, filled with nostalgia and hope, is a love letter to the unique spirit of Coney Island.

Throughout the film, Nicholson compellingly explores the clash between the past and the future, freedom and control, and individuals and the establishment. She frames this narrative within the larger context of urbanization and cultural erosion, making it a timely and poignant exploration of urban change.

The documentary is also an enlightening study into the power of politics and real estate in shaping the landscapes and horizons of urban locales. The figure of Joe Sitt appears as a recurring character in this narrative, representing the face of corporate interests that are progressively reshaping Coney Island. The power play between him, the government, and local vendors raises important questions about land rights, cultural preservation, and the cost of urban development.

Nicholson's effort has indeed resulted in a compelling story of resilience that throws light on the complexities and nuances involved in urban gentrification. It's not just the story of Coney Island or the Zipper ride; it's a story emblematic of similar spectacles at tourist hotspots and local landmarks worldwide.

Despite bearing an unsettling relevance, Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride doesn't forget to entertain. It's a riveting roller-coaster ride that hooks you from the word go — much like the Zipper ride did to its riders. The magic of the park and its rides shine through, preserving its joyous legacy and spirit even in the face of uncertainty.

In summary, Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride is a celebration of an iconic amusement park ride, a stirring account of a community's struggle and resilience against gentrification, and an incisive critique of the politics that overshadow the lives and dreams of common people. The film leaves viewers with a sense of nostalgia for a nostalgic past, an empathy for the community that cherishes its history, and a curiosity about the evolution of the urban landscape. This documentary, packed with stirring imagery and thought-provoking narratives, is sure to engage viewers who are passionate about history, urban landscapes, and societal change.