Episode 3 / Nicknames of Little Italy (short film)

The Last Days of Little Italy: An Original Documentary Series. In Italian-American culture nicknames, even though to others they may seem harsh and cruel, are terms of endearment and give a sense of belonging. Little Italy, a historic haven for immigrant families from the old country, was once threatened by an ever-expanding Chinatown. But now the fatal blow is being delivered by the gentrifiers. Corporations, yuppies, and chain stores all moved in. How did Little Italy transform itself from a working class neighborhood of tenement buildings to the third most expensive zip code in the United States? Part funny, part sad, the series explores the impact gentrification is having on Little Italy's long-term residents. The striking imagery captures the neighborhood before it is completely erased by sterile trendy stores and upper middle class sameness. Will New York City lose another cultural touchstone to the forces of greed? A Nolita Films Production Written and Directed by Paul Stone Produced by Claudia Montano Cinematography & Editing by Paul Stone Shot in New York City, Rome, Amalfi Coast & Puglia, Italy.