Watch The Hottest August

The Hottest August is a documentary film that follows the lives of various New Yorkers in August of 2017, a month that was the hottest ever recorded in the city’s history. Directed by Brett Story, the film explores the impact of climate change on people’s lives and their perception of the future. Throughout the film, we meet a diverse range of residents as they go about their daily lives, from a retired cop in Staten Island to a DACA beneficiary in Sunset Park. They each share their personal stories and how they are coping with the changes happening around them. Some express their concern about the future of the planet, while others dismiss climate change as a hoax.

The film is not limited to just conversations about climate change, but it also brings up other timely issues that are relevant to New Yorkers at the time. For example, during the August month, there were protests against white supremacy in response to the events that happened in Charlottesville, Virginia. The film does an excellent job of weaving these social and cultural issues into the broader picture of climate change.

One of the standout features of the documentary is the way it was filmed. Throughout the film, the camera captures the beauty of New York City during the summer. From the Coney Island Boardwalk to the rooftop gardens in Brooklyn, the film showcases the city in a way that is rarely seen in mainstream media. This approach makes the viewer feel like they are experiencing the city first-hand, which is a unique and refreshing perspective.

The documentary also uses clever visual techniques to highlight the effects of climate change. For example, the film shows a man lying on the beach while the water continues to splash against his feet, an indication of rising sea levels. Additionally, the theme of heat is explored throughout the film through the use of light and shadow, creating a sense of unease and discomfort.

The music in the film is also a highlight. The score, composed by Dan Deacon, evokes the energy and rhythm of the city while also creating an atmosphere of impending doom. This contrast between optimism and despair reflects the film’s overall message: that we are at a turning point in our history, where the future is uncertain, and we must act now to prevent further damage to our planet.

Overall, The Hottest August is a thought-provoking documentary that captures the mood of a city in crisis. By highlighting the personal stories of its residents, the film creates a sense of empathy and understanding, which makes the viewer more invested in finding solutions to climate change. The film is beautifully shot, expertly crafted, and relevant to our times. It is a must-see for anyone who cares about our planet’s future.

The Hottest August is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4 and a MetaScore of 75.