Katie Lee Biegel Shares Insights on New Documentary About Windows on the World
Biegel executive produced the CNN documentary short 'Top of the World' about the restaurant that occupied the top floors of the World Trade Center. The film highlights the lives of its staff and patrons, including chef Michael Lomonaco and restaurateur Joe Baum. It premieres on CNN on Labor Day ahead of the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
The film's origins trace to a book gifted by chef Marc Murphy, which deeply engaged Katie Lee and her husband Ryan. Ryan eventually launched the project, and they partnered with Time and Tribeca Studios after considering many production companies, selecting Betsy West and Julie Cohen for their documentary style.
The narrative spans the restaurant's history from its 1970s beginnings through economic shifts and the 1993 bombing, highlighting chef Michael Lomonaco's achievements before the 2001 anniversary. Biegel emphasized that fundraising proved a major obstacle, requiring her to learn new skills. The film premieres on Labor Day, preceded by a limited New York theatrical run.
This documentary could reshape public memory of 9/11 by foregrounding the daily lives and professional aspirations of those at Windows on the World. It may foster empathy among viewers unfamiliar with the restaurant's cultural significance, while offering families of victims a nuanced tribute. Additionally, it could influence how the hospitality industry reflects on the communal value of iconic dining spaces, potentially encouraging preservation of such histories.