Best Documentary
Grand Central New York: the Largest Train Station in the World
Nestled in the heart of New York, Grand Central, the world's largest train station, pulses with life as nearly a million people traverse its bustling movie-set-like lobby daily. With trains arriving every three minutes, Grand Central stands as a thriving city within the city, an indispensable hub that has drawn the participation of French expatriates. Among them is Nicolas, a seasoned New Yorker of 15 years, who presides over three restaurants and recently unveiled a new culinary venture within Grand Central's realm. Amidst a hefty $45,000 monthly rent and the management of a workforce of 40, Nicolas finds himself immersed in an entirely new dimension. Meanwhile, Julia, a 37-year-old financial director, embarks on her daily train journey towards Grand Central, a routine that extends to market visits within the station, where a rarity prevails—a fresh produce market in the heart of the United States. Among the station's notable occupants is Jacques Torres, renowned as the premier French chocolatier in the United States, who orchestrates his confectionery empire of seven New York establishments, including one nestled within Grand Central. As Easter dawns, Torres experiences a surge in activity, second only to the Christmas season. In a different rhythm, 26-year-old au pair Camille escapes to Grand Central on weekends, joining a cohort of friends for nocturnal escapades in Manhattan, the night's revelries culminating as dawn breaks and the train journey back awaits. Amidst the early hours, Grand Central becomes a refuge for a myriad of night owls.
00:00 Grand Central, New York
00:19 🚆 A French chocolate maker puts on a show for commuters at Grand Central train station in New York.
10:09 🥪 Nicholas focuses on simple but balanced dishes, like his specialty sandwich, to attract customers at the train station.
20:59 🔍 The lost and found department receives a variety of objects, including cell phones, umbrellas, coats, and even stranger items.
30:13 🍅 Nicholas, a restaurant owner in New York, understands the importance of innovation and regularly changes his menu to keep customers interested.
Director: Sebastien Gilles
Published Aug 11, 2023
