New York, New York

New York, New York (1977) Movie Review: A Timeless Tribute to the City That Never Sleeps

If you’re a fan of musicals and classic American cinema, New York, New York (1977) is one of those films you can’t miss. Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film paints a vivid picture of post-war America, specifically the jazz-infused nightlife of New York City in the 1940s and 1950s. With stellar performances from Robert De Niro and Liza Minnelli, the movie is both a love letter to the city and a raw, emotional exploration of love, fame, and the pursuit of dreams. This article will dive into a detailed review of New York, New York, while also guiding you on where to stream or rent the film online.

Plot Summary of New York, New York

Set in the aftermath of World War II, New York, New York follows the tumultuous relationship between Jimmy Doyle (Robert De Niro), a saxophone player, and Francine Evans (Liza Minnelli), a singer. They meet on V-J Day, and sparks fly instantly, but not all of them are romantic. Their love story is peppered with intense emotions, ambition, and heartbreak, much like the vibrant city that serves as the backdrop. Scorsese masterfully captures the chaos, magic, and allure of New York City, intertwining it with a jazzy score that immerses viewers in the era’s iconic music.

The film’s central theme is ambition and the price one pays for success. Jimmy’s relentless pursuit of musical greatness often comes at the expense of his relationship with Francine, whose own career blossoms in unexpected ways. The couple’s love story serves as a metaphor for the highs and lows of life in the big city, offering a poignant reflection on the American dream.

A Closer Look at the Performances

Robert De Niro’s portrayal of Jimmy Doyle is one of his most intense and nuanced performances. Known for his ability to dive deep into his characters, De Niro delivers a complex portrayal of a man whose passions often veer into destructive territory. Liza Minnelli, daughter of Judy Garland, shines as Francine Evans, showcasing both her acting and vocal talents. Her performance of the titular song, “New York, New York,” remains one of the most iconic moments in musical cinema.

Their chemistry on screen is undeniable, though the relationship between Jimmy and Francine is far from picture-perfect. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the darker sides of love, ambition, and fame, making it a deeply emotional watch.

Martin Scorsese’s Directorial Mastery

Martin Scorsese, renowned for his gritty portrayals of urban life, steps outside his usual gangster genre to create a vibrant musical. However, his signature storytelling style remains intact. Scorsese’s New York, New York is more than just a homage to the city; it’s a reflection on the sacrifices people make in pursuit of their dreams, and how those dreams can both unite and destroy.

The film was a departure from Scorsese’s earlier work, and although it didn’t receive the same level of commercial success as his other films like Taxi Driver or Raging Bull, it has gained a cult following over the years. The set design, costumes, and cinematography all work in harmony to transport viewers to post-war New York City.

Critical Reception and Legacy

When New York, New York was first released in 1977, it received mixed reviews. Some critics felt the film’s pacing was uneven, while others praised its ambition and the performances of its lead actors. Over time, however, the film has come to be appreciated as an underrated gem in Scorsese’s filmography.

Today, New York, New York is remembered for its bold artistic choices and the undeniable star power of De Niro and Minnelli. The movie’s legacy is cemented by its impact on both cinema and music, with the song “New York, New York” becoming a quintessential anthem for the city.

Where to Watch New York, New York Online in America (2024)

As a film that’s over four decades old, New York, New York can be a little tricky to find on streaming platforms. However, it’s available on a variety of services for those looking to either stream, rent, or purchase the film online in the U.S., especially for viewers in New York.

1. Streaming Platforms

• HBO Max
  If you have an HBO Max subscription, you’re in luck. New York, New York is available for streaming on this platform. HBO Max has built a solid reputation for offering a broad range of classic films, and Scorsese’s musical masterpiece is no exception. Simply log in and start streaming.
• Prime Video (via MGM subscription)
  Amazon Prime Video offers the movie through its MGM channel. This option requires an additional subscription beyond Prime, but it’s worth it if you’re a fan of classic cinema. Alternatively, you can rent or purchase the film directly on Prime Video without the subscription add-on.

2. Rental and Purchase Options

• Amazon Prime Video
  For those who prefer renting or owning digital copies, New York, New York is available for rent on Prime Video for around $3.99 in HD, with a purchase price of $14.99.
• Apple iTunes
  Apple iTunes also offers the movie for rent at $3.99 and for purchase at $14.99. This platform provides HD quality and allows you to download the movie for offline viewing.
• Vudu
  Vudu offers New York, New York for rent starting at $3.99 for the HD version, with purchase options at $14.99. Vudu often has sales on classic films, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for discounts.
• Google Play Movies
  On Google Play, you can rent the movie for $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99. This platform is particularly convenient for Android users, as the movie can be easily accessed across devices.

3. Free Streaming with Ads

• Tubi
  Occasionally, New York, New York becomes available on ad-supported streaming platforms like Tubi. While the selection varies, it’s worth checking periodically if you’re looking for a free option to watch the movie online.

Final Thoughts

New York, New York is more than just a film; it’s a musical journey through a bygone era, masterfully brought to life by Scorsese, De Niro, and Minnelli. Whether you’re watching for the first time or revisiting this classic, it offers a captivating blend of music, drama, and the highs and lows of life in New York City.

For those interested in experiencing the film, it’s widely available across multiple streaming platforms and digital rental services, making it easy to enjoy this timeless story from the comfort of your home. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and let New York, New York transport you to the vibrant, jazz-filled streets of the Big Apple.