Citizen Jane: Battle for the City 2017
Dive into the gripping true story behind *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City (2017)*, a compelling documentary directed by Matt Tyrnauer that pits the visionary writer and urban activist Jane Jacobs against the formidable urban planner Robert Moses in 1960s New York City.
Director: Matt Tyrnauer
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City* (2017) about?
This documentary follows writer and urban planner Jane Jacobs as she leads a crusade to protect New York City's historic neighborhoods from Robert Moses' aggressive redevelopment plans in the 1960s. It's a gripping clash between grassroots activism and top-down urban renewal.
Who directed *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City*?
The film was directed by Matt Tyrnauer, a filmmaker known for his work on social and urban issues.
Who stars in *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City*?
The documentary features insights from urban thinkers and historians including Thomas Campanella, Mindy Fullilove, Alexander Garvin, and Paul Goldberger.
Is *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City* (2017) worth watching?
Absolutely—this film is a must-watch for anyone interested in urban planning, history, or activist storytelling. Its blend of archival footage, expert interviews, and compelling narrative makes it both educational and deeply engaging. Even for casual viewers, the story of Jacobs' defiance against Moses is hard to resist.
How long is *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City*?
The documentary runs for 92 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Citizen Jane: Battle for the City (2017) — Jane Jacobs' fight to save NYC from Robert Moses
Dive into the gripping true story behind *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City (2017)*, a compelling documentary directed by Matt Tyrnauer that pits the visionary writer and urban activist Jane Jacobs against the formidable urban planner Robert Moses in 1960s New York City. This film isn't just about architecture—it's a David-and-Goliath tale of community resistance against top-down destruction, where Jacobs' passionate defense of historic neighborhoods clashes with Moses' relentless push for modernist redevelopment. With striking archival footage and interviews featuring experts like Thomas Campanella and Mindy Fullilove, the documentary paints a vivid portrait of a city at a crossroads, blending nostalgia, activism, and the timeless fight for livable urban spaces.
At its heart, *Citizen Jane: Battle for the City* is a tribute to grassroots power and the enduring legacy of one woman's fight to preserve the soul of a metropolis. Tyrnauer crafts a film that's equal parts historical drama and urgent call-to-action, leaving audiences to ponder how cities evolve—and who gets to decide their future.