The New Yorker Presents Season 1 Episode 9 Episode Nine

The New Yorker Presents is a television series that takes inspiration from the pages of the iconic New Yorker magazine. Each episode of the show is a collection of short films, documentaries, and slice-of-life stories that are all based on the magazine's articles and content.

Season 1 episode 9 of The New Yorker Presents, titled 'Episode Nine,' presents a diverse lineup of shorts that cover a wide range of topics. Some of the pieces take a deep dive into social and political issues, while others explore lighthearted subjects and showcase unusual individuals and communities.

This episode opens with a powerful segment that explores the disturbing reality of police brutality in America. The film, called 'Stop and Frisk,' is based on a New Yorker article that investigates the infamous police tactic of stopping and searching individuals without a warrant. The story is told through the experiences of several young men of color who have been unfairly targeted and harassed by the police. The filmmaking is raw and poignant, and the personal stories of these victims are both heart-wrenching and eye-opening.

Following this hard-hitting and important piece, the episode switches gears with a more lighthearted and quirky short called 'Three Stars.' This story is centered around a group of people who have found a unique passion in life: rating and reviewing the world's public restrooms. The film takes us on a journey through a variety of bathrooms, from the pristine to the downright disgusting, and introduces us to the personalities behind the ratings. It's an amusing and slightly absurd look at a subculture that most people would never think twice about.

Next up is a short film called 'Notes from a Native Daughter.' This piece delves into the personal history of the writer and activist Gloria Steinem, who shares her reflections on her upbringing and life as a feminist. The film is a tribute to Steinem's legacy and her impact on the feminist movement in America, told through beautiful archive footage and intimate interviews with the activist herself.

One of the standout segments of this episode is a documentary called 'One Angry Man.' This film tells the story of Paul Crump, a man who was sentenced to death for a crime he did not commit. The documentary uses archival footage of Crump's trial and interviews with his family and legal team to paint a vivid portrait of the injustice he faced. The film is a powerful commentary on the flaws in the American criminal justice system and a call to action to reform it.

The episode ends on a lighter note with a whimsical and heartwarming story called 'Swan Song.' This short introduces us to a community of people who have found joy and purpose in playing music on a set of handbells. The focus is on a group of seniors who have formed a handbell choir and are preparing for a big performance. The documentary captures the joy and camaraderie that this activity brings to the participants, and the performance itself is a delightful celebration of music and community.

Overall, season 1 episode 9 of The New Yorker Presents is a varied and thought-provoking collection of short films and documentaries. The range of topics covered keeps the episode fresh and engaging, and the high quality of the filmmaking and storytelling shine through in each segment. Whether exploring heavy topics like police brutality and the criminal justice system or uncovering the quirky passions of everyday people, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates smart and compelling documentary filmmaking.