Coney Island (1991)

Aired as an episode of PBS’s American Experience, this documentary covers the early history of the Coney Island amusement parks. I admit to having a somewhat irrational, minor obsession with these parks. My enjoyment of older films set in New York City is always enhanced if there are any scenes set at Coney Island. The film doesn’t cover a lot of new information for me, but the footage it has to offer and the shared experiences of lucky individuals who saw everything first hand, particularly Al Lewis who worked in the parks, makes for a fascinating watch. I love seeing all the early lighting and decorations and am thoroughly fascinated by some of the rides which would certainly not pass safety muster these days.