More than two decades after the catastrophic events of September 11, 2001, previously unreleased footage of the Twin Towers’ collapse has been made public. This movie, shot from a unique perspective, provides new insight into one of modern history’s most devastating events. Kei Sugimoto, the man who captured the footage, just shared it after hoarding it for almost 22 years.
The Day That Changed the World
On September 11, 2001, 19 members of the Islamist group Al-Qaeda hijacked four aircraft in a coordinated attack on the United States. Two planes collided with the World Trade Center in New York City, destroying the Twin Towers and killing almost 3,000 people. This attack had far-reaching ramifications, changing US foreign policy and leaving an indelible worldwide mark.
Rediscovering the Footage
Sugimoto recently stumbled upon old video tapes while cleaning out his closet. Among them was footage he recorded on 9/11 using a Sony VX2000 camera. Concerned about the condition of the tapes, he quickly digitized the video, unveiling a previously unseen perspective of the Twin Towers’ collapse.
A New View of the Collapse
The footage, taken from the roof of a building at 64 St. Marks Place in New York City, shows a unique northern perspective on the buildings’ collapse. The film shows the towers covered in black smoke before collapsing, providing a disturbing memory of that tragic day. One viewer stated, “This footage shows a perspective not typically seen from the south or east.”
Public Reaction to the Footage
Since being released on July 23, 2023, the video has gained widespread attention on social media, sparking conversations and reactions. Many expressed surprise that new footage of 9/11 could still surface after so many years. One Reddit user commented, “It’s incredible that nearly 23 years later, new footage is still coming to light.”
The Historical Importance of the Footage
The release of this footage emphasizes the need of conserving historical records. As one online commentator observed, “It makes you wonder how much history is sitting in people’s attics or basements, waiting to be discovered.” This video not only presents a unique visual narrative of 9/11, but it also reinforces the collective memory of an event that characterized the twenty-first century.
Conclusion: Preserving a Legacy
Kei Sugimoto’s decision to release this footage contributes a unique piece to the complex story of 9/11. The fresh perspective offers future generations a new visual understanding of the Twin Towers’ collapse, ensuring the events of that day remain vividly remembered. As the footage continues to circulate, it serves as a historical document and a stark reminder of the lasting impact of 9/11.