From Screens to Dreams: Exploring the Essence of New York City Through Films, Books, and more

New York City, the concrete jungle where dreams are made, stands as a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals around the world. If you haven’t had the chance to visit this vibrant metropolis in person just yet, fear not! There are plenty of avenues that can transport you virtually to the heart of this iconic city.

Films

1. Taxi Driver (1976) — This classic film directed by Martin Scorsese stars Robert De Niro as Travis Bickle, a lonely Vietnam War veteran who works as a night-time taxi driver in New York City. The film captures the gritty and dangerous side of the city in the 1970s.
2. Manhattan (1979) — Woody Allen’s love letter to New York, captures the city’s beauty through stunning black and white cinematography.
3. Do The Right Thing (1989) — Directed by Spike Lee, this film takes place in Brooklyn’s Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood on the hottest day of the year. The film explores tensions between the neighborhood’s African American and Italian American communities.
4. Coming to America (1988) — Eddie Murphy stars in this comedy about an African prince who travels to New York City in search of true love.
5. The Intern (2015) — A heartwarming comedy about a retired widower who becomes an intern at a successful fashion company in New York City.

TV Series

1. Brooklyn Nine-Nine — A comedic take on the daily lives of detectives in the NYPD’s 99th precinct, showcasing the vibrant and diverse borough of Brooklyn.
2. Mad Men — Step back in time to the bustling advertising world of the 1960s in New York City, filled with glamour, ambition, and secrets.
3. Sex and the City — HBO series follows the lives of four women living in New York City. The show explores issues such as love, sex, and friendship against the backdrop of iconic New York City locations.
4. Mr. Robot — This critically acclaimed drama follows a brilliant programmer who becomes involved with a group of hackers in New York City, exploring themes of technology, identity, and societal issues.
5. Gossip Girl — Teen drama series follows the lives of Manhattan’s elite teenagers as they navigate their way through high school and college. The show features iconic New York City locations such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Palace Hotel.

Books

1. New York by Edward Rutherfurd — Rich and immersive storytelling brings to life the struggles, triumphs, and diverse cultures that have shaped New York City from its early settlement to the present day.
2. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith — This novel is set in the early 1900s and follows the life of Francie Nolan, a young girl growing up in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn. The novel captures the struggles of working-class families in the city.
3. Just Kids by Patti Smith — This memoir tells the story of Patti Smith’s life in New York City in the 1960s and 1970s. The book explores the art and music scene of the era and features iconic locations such as the Chelsea Hotel.
4. The Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe — This novel is set in the 1980s and follows the story of Sherman McCoy, a wealthy bond trader who gets involved in a hit-and-run accident in the Bronx. The book features iconic New York City locations such as the Bronx courthouse and Park Avenue.

As an added benefit:

LetMeSpeak — This innovative app is the first language learning platform with financial motivation. The users inside can find themselves in the center of NYC, facing everyday tasks such as buying tickets, ordering food, checking into a hotel, and many more! LetMeSpeak is a great way to learn English while virtually experiencing the city that never sleeps.

The Met Gala Museum — A fascinating virtual experience that allows you to explore one of New York City’s most iconic cultural institutions. Through their website, you can embark on a virtual tour of the museum, delving into its rich history and witnessing stunning exhibits that have graced the renowned Met Gala event. Take a glimpse into the world of high fashion, art, and glamour, all from the convenience of your own screen.

While physically visiting New York City might be on your bucket list, there are plenty of opportunities to experience its magic through films, TV series, books, and platforms like LetMeSpeak. Immerse yourself in the energy and charm of the Big Apple from the comfort of your own home, and let your imagination carry you away to the heart of the NYC.

One day, you’ll make it to the real New York, but until then, let these mediums be your window to its wonders! ♡