Astoria’s image as portrayed by the media has morphed in the last few decades. Whereas in the 1980s, it was passed off as an organized crime ridden area with notable figures such as Frank Costello (famous mobster) in the area, it is now mostly viewed in a positive, diverse, and well-developed area. The media has also often hightlighted the ethnic and cultural aspects of Astoria over all else and most likely is the main reason why many people still view Astoria as a Greek wonderland.
Today, Astoria is often spoken about as a great representative neighborhood of New York City(nytimes). It is highlighted as a diverse and very desirable place to be and, especially with the growing food culture obsession in New York, much is written and promoted about Astoria as a food heaven. A quick search in the New York Times archive reveals that the most talked about aspect of Astoria is the food industry and the list is dominated by restaurant reviews and guides.
The sudden influx of food related information can also be seen as an identifying factor of gentrification. Usually, as areas gentrify, restaurants that target wealthy consumers will flock to the places that are growing more prosperous and naturally the area will become more and more well known for quality cuisine.
Film
Astoria is littered with film studios and has made a number of appearances in popular culture. Famous films that have captured parts of Astoria include King Kong, Hollywood Ending, and the Tempest.
Another notable series filmed in Astoria is Sesame Street, the popular children’s show.
Videos
The film A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints(2006) shows the tumultuous nature of youth in the 1980s:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dN2_oFe4B_Y
Set in the Queens, New York neighborhood know as “little Athens”. ASTORIA centers around a blue-collar Greek-American family as they struggle to hold on to the American Dream. Follow the journey of 28-year old Alex and his desire to escape his stagnate neighborhood and pursue an off-beat dream that will take him to the lost tomb of Alexander the Great. Alex must overcome his Old World-minded father’s plans: expanding the family business and contending with some local wise guys intent on collecting his dad’s gambling debt.
