About Class Divide (HBO)

Class Divide is a fascinating and thought-provoking documentary released in 2016 by HBO. It focuses on the modern issues of gentrification and economic disparity in New York City's West Chelsea neighborhood. Director Marc Levin contrasts the lives of the wealthy elites living in the high-end apartments of the recently developed High Line with the struggles of the less fortunate living in the public housing projects across the street.

Making / Production

Class Divide is directed by Marc Levin, produced by Daphne Pinkerson and co-produced by Mike Farah and Joe Farrell. It is executive produced by Sheila Nevins and Nancy Abraham. The documentary was jointly produced by HBO Documentary Films and Blowback Productions.

Actors

• Marc Levin: As the Director, Levin plays a vital role; his keen vision unveils the stark reality of class division.
• Yasemin Smallens: Cast as herself, Yasemin offers a perspective of a student from the affluent side of the divide.
• Hyisheem Calier: Playing himself, Hyisheem offers a perspective as a student from the Elliott Houses, depicting life on the other side of the divide.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The documentary offers an in-depth look at the real-life impact of gentrification in New York City's West Chelsea neighborhood.
• Class Divide is part of a trilogy on economic forces changing lives and landscapes, preceded by "Hard Times: Lost on Long Island" and "Schmatta: Rags to Riches to Rags".
• The director, Marc Levin, has produced multiple projects focusing on social issues, such as "Brick City" and "Chicagoland".

Awards

N/A

Quotes

• "In my school, there are kids who are so much richer than me, so much wealthier than me." - Hyisheem Calier
• "The class divide to me is when the wealthy people do not acknowledge how they're living right next to poverty." - Yasemin Smallens

Music, Soundtrack

• The music in Class Divide enhances the realism and immersive quality of the documentary but the soundtrack details are not publicly specified.