Watch Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride

'Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride' is a 2012 documentary film that explores the history of the iconic Zipper ride on Coney Island and the controversy surrounding its closure. The film is directed by Amy Nicholson and takes viewers on a journey through the vibrant, fast-paced world of Coney Island. The movie opens with footage of the Zipper ride, an intense thrill ride that plunges riders in a series of loops and twists, winding its way through Coney Island's amusement park. We are introduced to the ride's mechanic, Eddie Miranda, who has been working on the Zipper for over 30 years. We learn that the Zipper has a reputation for being a dangerous and unpredictable ride, with rumors of accidents and injuries dating back to its inception in the 1960s.

As the film progresses, we are introduced to a cast of colorful characters, from amusement park enthusiasts to historians, who each offer their unique perspective on the Zipper and its significance to Coney Island. We hear from a group of riders, who describe the adrenaline rush and sense of freedom they feel when riding the Zipper. We also meet local residents and business owners, who express concern over the potential impact of the ride on the community.

The heart of the film centers around the fight to save the Zipper from closure by the New York City Department of Buildings. We learn that the ride was deemed unsafe and required extensive repairs, which the ride's owner, Eddie Miranda, could not afford. As Miranda struggles to keep his business afloat, a group of activists and preservationists rally behind the Zipper, arguing that it is an important piece of Coney Island's history and cultural identity.

The film delves into the politics and bureaucracy of city government, as activists and city officials clash over the fate of the Zipper. We see protests and demonstrations, rallies and speeches, as supporters of the ride fight to keep it open. We also get a glimpse into the personal struggles of Eddie Miranda, who is faced with the possibility of losing his livelihood and the ride that he loves.

Throughout the movie, the Zipper itself remains a central character, with stunning aerial shots and point-of-view footage that captures the thrill and excitement of the ride. The documentary also explores the larger cultural significance of Coney Island and its role in the development of the amusement park industry in America.

Overall, 'Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride' is a fascinating and informative documentary that sheds light on a beloved piece of New York City's history. The film provides an intimate look at the people and forces that shape our urban spaces, and the complex relationships between culture, economics, and politics. Whether you're a fan of amusement parks, local history, or just enjoy a good story, this movie is a must-see.

Zipper: Coney Island's Last Wild Ride is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 72.