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Deep Dive: The Outsider (2021)

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The Outsider
The Outsider is a documentary directed by Steven Rosenbaum and Pamela Yoder that chronicles the creation of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City. The film follows Michael Shulan, the museum's creative director, from the day of the September 11 attacks until the museum's opening in 2014. Over eight years, the film captures Shulan's initial optimism about the project and his subsequent disillusionment with the final outcome. As Shulan reflects on the museum, he expresses concern that it resembles a tourist attraction more than a site that offers a nuanced portrayal of history. His departure from the institution shortly after its opening makes clear his belief that the memorial does not fulfill its intended purpose. The film premiered on Facebook in August 2021.

Why Watch

  • •Follow Michael Shulan's experience with the museum's creation.
  • •See the transformation of a memorial into a tourist attraction.
  • •Meet the creative director who left after the museum opened.

Did You Know

•The Outsider was directed by Steven Rosenbaum and Pamela Yoder.
•Michael Shulan served as the creative director for the museum.
•The film covers an eight-year span from the September 11 attacks to 2014.
•The documentary premiered on Facebook in August 2021.

Perfect For

September 11 historyMuseum studiesNew York City landmarks