In recent weeks, the streets of New York City have been transformed into a cinematic time capsule, as two major period pieces have taken over the city's iconic locations. From the gritty 1990s to the glamorous 1950s, these films are transporting audiences to the past, showcasing the rich history and diverse neighborhoods that make the Big Apple a cinematic mecca.

Capturing the Essence of New York's Bygone Eras

Marty Supreme: A Ping Pong Odyssey in the 1950s

The bustling streets of the Lower and Upper East Side have been transported back to the 1950s, as director Josh Safdie's "Marty Supreme" takes center stage. Starring Timothée Chalamet as a ping pong champion, the film is inspired by the real-life story of legendary player Marty Reisman. With Gwyneth Paltrow playing Chalamet's love interest, the production has meticulously recreated the era's vintage cars, signage, and storefronts, transporting viewers to a bygone era of New York's vibrant culture.One of the key locations used for the film is the Moscot eyewear flagship store on Orchard Street, which was dressed to appear as the original 1915 location on Rivington Street. The production team's attention to detail has been praised, with a Moscot employee noting that "all of the businesses were operating – we didn't have any interaction with the film."

Caught Stealing: A 1990s Crime Thriller

In contrast, "Caught Stealing" takes audiences back to the gritty 1990s, with director Darren Aronofsky at the helm. Starring Austin Butler as an alcoholic former baseball player entangled in the decade's crime underworld, the film has transformed the East Village into a time capsule of the era. From the recreation of the beloved Benny's Burritos on Avenue A to the transformation of the Double Down Saloon into a 90s-era watering hole, the production team has meticulously recreated the neighborhood's iconic landmarks.One of the standout locations is the former Amor y Amargo cocktail bar, which was dressed to appear as Neno's Pizza, a nod to the late Nino's Pizza, a beloved spot that closed in 2012. The attention to detail has not gone unnoticed, with a bartender at the Double Down Saloon commenting on the production team's efforts to remove modern technology and recreate the 90s vibe.

Preserving the Essence of New York's Neighborhoods

The filming of these period pieces has not only transported audiences to the past but has also highlighted the importance of preserving the unique character and history of New York City's neighborhoods. As the city continues to evolve, these productions serve as a reminder of the rich tapestry that makes the Big Apple a one-of-a-kind destination.According to location scout Aaron Hurvitz, "Doing period [pieces] in New York is a wonderful experience, you're able to recapture some of the magic that is the rich history of New York City." This sentiment is echoed by former Kim's Video employee Alex Ross Perry, who was "delighted and surprised" to see the beloved video store's original location recreated for "Caught Stealing."As these films captivate audiences and transport them to the past, they also serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of New York City, where the past and present coexist in a vibrant, ever-changing landscape.