The Gods of Times Square

The Gods of Times Square is a 1999 documentary film that paints a fascinating portrait of an iconic location at the turn of the 21st century, through the undefinable and creative vision of American filmmaker, Richard Sandler. Uniquely chronicling the vibrant environment and eclectic personalities of Times Square in New York City during the 90's decade, the film embarks on a memorable journey, resonating with cultural, social, and historical undertones, serving as a time capsule for that era.

The film is centered around Times Square in Manhattan, often hailed as the “crossroads of the world”, during a time of radical change, where it transitioned from a seedy, delinquent hub for sex shops and drug trade into a bustling globalized centre for commerce, entertainment, and tourism. As the face of the square changes, we are privy to a view through the lens that captures the pulse of the city, the real, bold, often unnoticed moments in the daily life of the square, witnessing the slow death of an era and its colorful inhabitants, and the birth of a commercialized, corporate persona.

Director Richard Sandler, an established street photographer, adds a narrative richness to the scenes with his keen eye for candid moments and the subtleties of urban life. He spent seven years filming the day-to-day activities of Times Square, embedding himself in amongst the preachers, proselytizers, and charismatic characters that called the square their pulpit, their stage, their home. His filming style is raw, unfiltered and personal, capturing candid moments that delve into the heart of the city's vibrant, yet chaotic life.

The Gods of Times Square takes us through the eccentric lives of religious zealots and missionaries, who over the years had established a prominent presence in the square. These larger-than-life characters contribute an aspect of street theater to Sandler's footage, with their flamboyant outfits, impassioned speeches and unique takes on spirituality. In the shadows of omnipresent billboards, we see religion in all its shades - from traditional preachers quoting Bible verses to followers of Egyptian deities, and African American Hebrews, all trying to carve out a bit of spiritual territory amid the frenetic cacophony.

Though the film primarily strings together these spontaneous yet extraordinary interactions and dialogues, it doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of that time. It sheds light onto the complex societal issues embedded in the cityscape - poverty, crime, gentrification, the aids crisis, racial tension, the raw confrontations between differing ideals, and the struggle for space in an evolving urban sprawl.

Yet, what sets The Gods of Times Square apart is its ability to intertwine these elements with a lyrical sense of place and the element of change over time. The synergy between the old and new, the ancient and modern, the spiritual and commercial, makes the documentary not just a record of Times Square, but also an exploration of the human condition within a rapidly altering landscape. The juxtaposition of worship and commerce reflects the square's metamorphosis, with the spiritual 'gods' being overshadowed by new 'gods' of commercialism - the multinational brands vying for consumer attention.

As a cinematic experience, The Gods of Times Square serves as a compelling eulogy to the past, portraying a Times Square that no longer exists. It is a testament to the power of film in preserving the past and allowing for introspective journeys into the human condition within vibrant cityscapes. The film works not just as a time capsule of a place, but also as a scrutinizing gaze into the themes of spirituality, societal transition, urban progress, and the commercialization of public spaces.

The Gods of Times Square is a unique cinematic journey that takes us deeper into the human experience in an urban environment, painting complex, and impactful images of a city in transition. While Times Square today is largely a tourist hotspot and commercial center, this film uncannily humanizes it and gives viewers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural tapestry, resonant echoes of the past, and the evolving identity of the square, thereby making it a must-watch for all lovers of New York and enthusiasts of urban sociology and culture.