Watch Ferry Tales

" Ferry Tales" is a documentary film directed by Katja Esson that was released in 2003. The film explores the lives of several women who commute daily on the Staten Island Ferry between Manhattan and Staten Island in New York City. The women, who come from diverse backgrounds, share their experiences and stories of life on the ferry.

The film is a fascinating insight into the lives of these commuters who often spend several hours each day travelling to and from work. Through interviews with the women, we learn about their families, their jobs, and their dreams for the future. The women talk about everything from marriage, motherhood, dating, and even politics.

The film is divided into several chapters, each of which focuses on a different aspect of life on the ferry. In one chapter, the women discuss relationships and the challenges of finding love in the modern world. In another, they talk about the different types of commuters they encounter on the ferry and the social dynamics that play out in those interactions.

Throughout the film, we see the women going about their daily lives on the ferry - chatting with friends, reading, and even napping. We also meet several of the ferry crew, who share their own perspectives on the daily commute and the role they play in making it a smooth and comfortable experience for the passengers.

One particularly poignant moment in the film comes when one of the women, Mary Ann, shares her experience of losing her husband on September 11th. She talks about how the ferry became a place of solace for her in the aftermath of the tragedy, and how the support and kindness of her fellow commuters helped her to heal.

Overall, "Ferry Tales" is a heartwarming and engaging documentary that offers a unique glimpse into the lives of a group of people who share a common experience - the daily commute on the Staten Island Ferry. The film is expertly crafted, with a mix of interviews, observational footage, and creative storytelling that keeps the viewer engaged from start to finish.

One of the strengths of the film is the way in which it portrays the diversity of the women who commute on the ferry. We meet women of different ages, races, and backgrounds, each with their own story to tell. This diversity not only makes the film interesting to watch, but also helps to break down stereotypes and challenge assumptions about who these women are and what their lives are like.

Another standout aspect of the film is the way in which it captures the unique environment of the ferry itself. As one of the women points out, the ferry is a kind of "floating community" where people from all walks of life come together for a shared experience. The film does an excellent job of capturing the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of the ferry, giving the viewer a sense of what it's like to be there.

Overall, "Ferry Tales" is a wonderful documentary that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It offers a window into the lives of a group of people who may be overlooked or taken for granted in our daily lives, and reminds us of the power of human connection and community. Whether you're a regular commuter on the Staten Island Ferry or have never set foot on a ferry in your life, this film is definitely worth checking out.