The Domino Effect is a new documentary film that explores the process of real estate development in New York City to uncover the complex networks of banks, developers, politicians, and non-profit organizations that shape our cities.
The film's directors use the redevelopment of the Domino Sugar factory in Brooklyn as a way of looking at the way things get built. They are vocal about their belief that city planning has failed to serve the people of Brooklyn:
"Williamsburg has experienced the negative impacts of excessive luxury development more than any other neighborhood in the city. Average rents have doubled there in the last ten years and over 10,000 industrial jobs have been lost, yet developers, politicians, and special interests continue to push these mega-projects through."
"The film addresses development from the perspective of those who are affected vs. those who effectively execute public policy in the neighborhood."
Read the full interview by Henry Stewart over at L Magazine.
Thanks to Brian Paul
FULL STORY: Brooklyn Filmmakers Hustle To Finish Domino Documentary

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