Watch Class Divide

Class Divide is a documentary film that explores the relationship between the rich and poor in the Chelsea neighborhood of New York City. Directed by Marc Levin, the film focuses on how gentrification and rising property prices are driving a wedge between the two groups. At the center of the film is the Chelsea neighborhood's Avenues School, a private institution catering to the children of the ultra-rich. The school's construction in 2012 has raised questions about the future of the community and whether the influx of wealthy families will have a positive or negative impact on the area.

Levin interviews a range of people from the community, including parents and students at the Avenues School, long-time residents, and young people struggling to make a living in the area. The film shows that the neighborhood's demographics have shifted in recent years, with gentrification leading to rising property prices and the displacement of poorer residents.

Through interviews with community members, the film highlights the different socio-economic conditions that exist within Chelsea. The film explores how some of the residents of the community on the lower end of the income scale have been affected by the rise in wealth in the area, as well as how some have benefited from increased investment in the neighborhood.

The Avenues School serves as a microcosm of the wider changes happening in the community. The school is home to students from a wide range of backgrounds, including wealthy families and those who are attending on scholarship. Interviews with these children reveal their experiences in and outside the classroom and their attitudes and opinions about income inequality.

The film also features interviews with a community-based organization called The Fulton Youth of the Future, which offers after-school programs and mentoring to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Members of this organization speak about the challenges they face in a rapidly changing neighborhood and how they are working to create opportunities for young people.

Overall, Class Divide highlights the complexities of gentrification and rising income inequality. The film shows how different members of a community can have vastly different experiences and opportunities depending on their socio-economic background.

The film demonstrates that gentrification can bring about positive change in a neighborhood, such as increased investment and the creation of new jobs. However, it also highlights the negative aspects of such changes, including increased rent prices and the displacement of long-term residents.

Ultimately, Class Divide serves as a call to action for viewers to examine their own attitudes towards gentrification and think about ways in which we can create more equitable communities for all.

Class Divide is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 14 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.