City of Joel

Overview

"City of Joel" offers an intimate glimpse into Kiryas Joel, a 1.1-square-mile enclave in suburban New York, home to 22,000 members of the Satmar Hasidic community. The documentary captures their struggle to maintain their way of life, adhering to the 613 commandments of the Talmud, amidst rapid growth. As one of the most devout groups in America, their high rates of marriage and birth have attracted the attention of developers who aim to expand the village. However, local residents oppose this expansion, fearing environmental impacts and shifts in political power dynamics.