One Day in the American City | PBS

Framing the city as a center for innovation and humanity, the series begins by examining why we live in metropolises in the first place. What is it that drives us to build and live in complex societies? The city, described as an organism, lives and breaths with culture and opportunity.

Many challenges that face metro areas are also easily seen, while still, some are in the shadows. The show offers unique local access to citizens that are on the edge. Some of the individual stories and experiences shared link deeper into bigger issues and insecurities that face us all. Gentrification, homelessness, violent crime, climate change … can a total collapse of the system actually happen?

The story of the American city does have plenty of hope. And, through the lens of a diverse community of filmmakers, solutions and collective action are celebrated. From reformed prison inmates, to urban farmers, to MIT technologist, it is clear that fresh thinking, strong leadership and a true commitment to the future will ensure that the story of the American city is full of opportunity and fulfilled dreams.

About the Episodes

The Love of City | Immerse yourself in the story of the American city, as told by thousands of filmmakers in a single day. Homelessness, gentrification, new technology, the sharing economy, gun laws and urban farming are just some of the topics explored.

The Struggles of Our Cities | Confront the challenges of the American city, as told by thousands of filmmakers in a single day. Homelessness, gentrification, crime, and climate change are just some of the topics explored.

The Hope for Our Cities | Learn about future solutions for our American cities, as told by thousands of filmmakers in a single day.  Environmental restoration, urban farming, criminal rehabilitation, transportation, and new technology are just some of the topics explored.