New York, New York (1977)

VHS CASE/SIDE

Length of film: 155 Minutes (1981 Re-issue: 163 Minutes)

Rated: PG

Genre: Drama, Musical

Director: Martin Scorsese

Starring: Liza Minnelli, Robert De Niro, Lionel Stander, Barry Primus, Mary Kay Place

IMDB Rank: 6.7/10

Part 1 Time: N/A Minutes (1981 Re-issue: 113 Minutes)

Part 2 Time:  N/A Minutes (1981 Re-issue: 50 Minutes)

Where does the first part end? Francine Evans (Liza Minnelli) is offered a signing contract.

Final line of dialogue on the first part: Music agent speaks with Jimmy Doyle (Robert De Niro) following Francine’s contract offer. “We got a deal you feel comfortable about?” Jimmy responds “Sure, sure”

First line of dialogue on the second part: Jimmy Doyle speaks on the phone, random woman walks by and states “Family Night.”

How jarring is it when the first part ends? Minimal, at this point in the film we can see Francine’s singing talent. Her style of singing is widely popular for the time period. Jimmy is also talented as a saxophone instrumentalist, but is not as sought after. How will this new contract impact Francine and Jimmy’s relationship?

Which part is better? The film is clearly split into two parts. The first part of the film is drama style forcing on the building if Francine and Jimmy’s partnership. As they become more successful they begin a romantic relationship where we see the ups and downs they both go through. Part two of the film becomes more of a musical style, focusing on Francine’s musical career and the aftermath of her and Jimmy’s relationship. Part one is significantly better as we are able to experience the New York jazz club as well as the complications of working professionally and collaboratively with one’s partner (spouse).

Academy Awards: None