Watch American Experience: Blackout

American Experience: Blackout is a documentary film released in 2015 by PBS. It takes a detailed look at the power outage that occurred on July 13, 1977, in New York City. The blackout lasted for two days, leaving more than 8 million people without power, and it impacted many aspects of life in the city. The film uses archival footage, personal accounts, and expert interviews to present the story of the blackout. It begins by exploring the mood in the city before the outage, which was tense and troubled. The 1970s were a time of economic and social turmoil, and the city was facing many challenges, including high unemployment rates, crime, and racial tensions. Against this backdrop, the blackout occurred, plunging the city into chaos.

The film examines the various factors that contributed to the blackout, which included a lightning strike, a series of mechanical failures, and human error. It also explores the aftermath of the power outage, which was marked by widespread looting, arson, and violence. Nearly 3,800 people were arrested, and more than 1,000 fires were started during the two days of darkness.

Through interviews with people who lived through the blackout, the film provides a vivid picture of the impact it had on individuals and communities. Some people saw the power outage as an opportunity for looting and vandalism, while others came together to help their neighbors and protect their property. The film also explores how different groups were affected by the blackout, including women, immigrants, and the elderly.

One of the most interesting aspects of American Experience: Blackout is how it examines the racial dynamics of the time. The blackout occurred during a period of intense tension between the police and black and Latino communities in the city. The film explores how the power outage affected these communities differently, and how it exacerbated existing divisions. It also sheds light on the efforts of community leaders to prevent violence and bring people together during a difficult time.

Overall, American Experience: Blackout is a fascinating and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on a pivotal moment in New York City's history. It does an excellent job of capturing the mood of the city before, during, and after the power outage, and it provides a nuanced and insightful analysis of the various factors that contributed to the blackout. Through the personal accounts of people who lived through the blackout, the film provides a powerful reminder of how a large-scale disaster can have a profound impact on individuals and communities.