I haven't seen this movie in over 30 years, since it came out. I couldn't believe how bad the South Bronx was back then. Those overhead shots of empty lots, burned out buildings. Yikes. I guess this was the result from "The Bronx is Burning" of the late 70s.
I want the doctor to take your picture so I can look at you from inside as well.
I know! My first thought when I saw the film in '81 was "that's why we had to leave the Bronx." Re-watched this wonderful film recently and the feeling sticks. I'm still very nostalgic for all of NYC in general (obviously not for the urban detritus nor garbage workers strikes).
I tried to Google Street view the address of the church in the Bronx from the movie and all I could see was middle-class homes with neatly manicured lawns and parks along all of Charlotte Street. Is it possible that 35 years later what used to look like a bombed out war zone is a safe living space? I would find that a great relief. Nothing is ever perfect or forever, but an improvement like that cannot be a bad thing.
I haven't been back to South Bronx in well over 30 years, if anyone has any news to add about the area, I'd love to hear from you.