Watch American Shoeshine

American Shoeshine is a 1976 Italian documentary film directed by Italian-American filmmaker Ermanno Olmi. It explores the lives of Italian-American shoeshine boys in New York City during the 1970s. The film showcases the hustle and bustle of the city streets and captures the essence of the shoeshine culture in America. The movie shows the daily grind of these shoeshine boys and how they make a living in a big city like New York. The film follows their daily routine from early morning till evening, where they set up their shoe shine stands at various street corners and work for hours to make ends meet. The film depicts their routines, their job descriptions, their work ethics, and their struggle to survive in a city that does not belong to them.

Throughout the film, we witness the boys interact with their customers, who range from businessmen to construction workers. They talk about their lives, their hopes, and their dreams. They share stories of their families back home and their struggle to support them. These boys represent the American dream and the desire to succeed in the land of opportunity.

The documentary film is shot in black and white, which adds to the urban feel of the movie. The film captures the city in a very raw and authentic way. We see the hustle and bustle of the city streets, the various cultures mingling together, the sights, the smells, and everything in between. It almost feels like we are walking alongside these boys, observing their daily lives.

The film is also accompanied by a haunting soundtrack that sets the mood for the film. The music is a mix of traditional Italian music and contemporary jazz. It adds to the ambiance of the film and enhances the experience.

One of the standout features of American Shoeshine is the way it documents the everyday lives of these boys. We see how they interact with each other and form bonds with people from different walks of life. The film also explores the theme of race and social inequality, something that was prevalent during the 1970s. It shows how these boys are forced to take up these menial jobs due to their socioeconomic status.

Overall, American Shoeshine is a powerful and moving documentary that highlights the lives of the working class in America. It shows how these boys, who are mostly immigrants, struggle to make ends meet in a harsh and unforgiving city. The film beautifully captures the essence of the shoeshine culture and the hard work that goes into it. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the lives of the working class and the American dream.