Amusement parks are supposed to be places of happiness and fun. Even though most of the rides are overly familiar, tired even, there’s still a sense of undeniable magic. Sadly, not all of these theme parks survive. No Joy is a short subject piece with the camera turned towards one such location, the abandoned Joyland Amusement Park in Wichita, Kansas. Founded in 1949, the site managed to last a good 50 years before finally closing its doors in 2003. Shots of empty Ferris wheels, deserted roller coasters, and derelict gaming stations bring a real sense of loss. Especially when combined with faded carnival music, reminding us of the joy that once existed there.
Directed by: Mike Petty
