Millions in Business as Usual

About This Movie

So, 'Millions in Business as Usual' is this intriguing piece from 1961 that plays with the rhythm of everyday life in New York City, set to Haydn's piano sonata. It's got this fascinating juxtaposition; you see the frenetic dance of the crowds in the allegro movement, almost like a living canvas of urban chaos. Then it shifts to a much slower pace with the second movement, where the buildings almost become characters themselves, exuding a kind of solemn grace. The practical effects—just capturing life as it is without too much embellishment—give it a distinct feel. There’s no flashy direction here; it’s more about the mood and the city’s heartbeat, something you don't see often.

This film is a bit of a rarity in collector circles, often overlooked, but it really captures a specific era of New York. There's limited availability in physical formats, so finding a decent print can be a challenge. The atmosphere it creates, especially with the music, tends to resonate with those who appreciate the interplay of sound and image in cinema.