Katie Griffin · Follow
7 min read · May 22, 2024
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Get ready to dive into the world of Jean-Michel Basquiat movies! This roundup article will explore the captivating and creative films featuring the iconic artist himself, providing an in-depth look at the artist’s onscreen presence and portrayal. Join us as we delve into the Basquiat cinematic universe and uncover the stories it tells.
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1. Superstar: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol (1990)
Superstar: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol explores the life and impact of the legendary artist Andy Warhol, who both defined and revolutionized the concept of celebrity. From his humble beginnings in Pittsburgh to his meteoric rise in New York, Warhol’s journey to fame and fortune serves as the backdrop for this compelling documentary and biography.
2. Downtown 81 (2000)
Downtown 81, also known as the unreleased documentary “Downtown 81: A Grandmaster of Noise, “ offers an intimate look into the life of the iconic artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. After being discharged from the hospital, the struggling artist strives to make ends meet by selling artwork and searching for a stable living situation. The film showcases the vibrant street life of 1980s Manhattan, where the world of no wave music and graffiti art intertwine.
3. TV Party (2005)
“TV Party” (2005) is a fascinating documentary featuring the eponymous cable TV show hosted by Glenn O’Brien, which was active from 1978 to 1982. Co-hosted by Chris Stein from Blondie and directed by filmmaker Amos Poe, this hour-long show thrust television into uncharted territories of sub-realism, pushing the boundaries of civility.
4. The Universe of Keith Haring (2008)
“The Universe of Keith Haring” offers an enthralling exploration into the life and artistic contributions of the renowned New York artist, Keith Haring. This captivating documentary takes viewers on a riveting journey through the vibrant and unconventional world of Haring, who was not only a pioneering artist but also a passionate and influential activist for gay rights.
5. Con Artist (2009)
“Con Artist” is a compelling documentary that delves into the complex world of business artistry starring the famed millionaire, Michael Sládek. It explores the trials and tribulations as Sládek confronts his past obnoxious behavior while simultaneously searching for love through fame.
6. Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child (2010)
Delve into the life and times of the one-of-a-kind Jean-Michel Basquiat in this definitive documentary directed by Tamra Davis. Known for his vibrant neoexpressionist art and unapologetic challenges to the mainstream, Basquiat’s success as a black artist in the minimalist art era was a beacon of creativity amidst adversity. Witness his journey through a series of archival footage, interviews with insiders, and glimpses of his relationship with fellow artists.
7. Julian Schnabel: A Private Portrait (2017)
“Julian Schnabel: A Closer Look” is an engrossing documentary that explores the intriguing personal life and burgeoning artistic career of renowned New York artist, Julian Schnabel. Featuring exclusive interviews, intimate behind-the-scenes moments, and rare historical clips, this captivating documentary delves into the complexity of an artistic luminary driven by passion and ambition.
8. Boom for Real: The Late Teenage Years of Jean-Michel Basquiat (2017)
Immerse yourself in the vivid world of Jean-Michel Basquiat with the engrossing documentary “Boom for Real: The Late Teenage Years of Jean-Michel Basquiat. “ Directed by Sara Driver, the film explores the pre-fame years of the celebrated American artist, offering a captivating insight into his evolution as a street artist and cultural icon. Delve into the powerful influence of New York City in the late 1970s and ’80s and discover how this dynamic arts scene shaped Basquiat’s unique artistic vision. With an intriguing runtime of 1 hour and 18 minutes, “Boom for Real” provides a striking portrait of an artist on the brink of fame and a city that would forever change his artistic journey.
9. Shadowman (2017)
“Shadowman” is a riveting 2017 documentary film that delves into the life of Richard Hambleton, a trailblazing artist at the forefront of the street art movement. The film, directed by Oren Jacoby, highlights Hambleton’s journey from a talented artist known for his elaborate and enigmatic portraits to a victim of drugs and homelessness.
10. Basquiat: Rage to Riches (2017)
“Basquiat: Rage to Riches, “ a riveting UK documentary released in 2020, delves into the extraordinary life of artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. This self-taught Brooklyn-born genius rose from obscurity to fame as a globally renowned figure on the international art marketplace. Directed by David Shulman, the documentary is a celebration of Basquiat’s extraordinary talent and the enduring impact of his art.
11. The Price of Everything (2018)
Nathaniel Kahn’s captivating documentary, The Price of Everything, invites viewers on an unforgettable journey through the mesmerizing world of contemporary art. This enchanting film provides unprecedented access to the lives and work of the most influential artists and the enigmatic market that surrounds them.
12. Kenny Scharf: When Worlds Collide (2020)
Kenny Scharf: When Worlds Collide is a riveting documentary that takes viewers on an immersive journey into the life and art of the legendary street artist, Kenny Scharf. This 2020 film, released in 2021, delves into the vibrant world of pop art and street art, providing a unique glimpse into the creative mind of Scharf, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
13. The Photograph (2021)
“The Photograph” is an enthralling 2021 documentary film by filmmaker Sherman De Jesus, highlighting untold stories unfolding in Harlem. Through his visit, he uncovers a trove of unforgettable accounts that will transform your perception of New York forever. Inspired by the exceptional work of James Van Der Zee, this film will leave you captivated and yearning for more, delving deep into the rich history of Harlem.
14. Rattle-Can (2021)
Experience a thrilling journey of art, mystery, and self-discovery in the heart of urban culture with “Rattle-Can” (2021). This gripping crime drama, directed by Alexander Raye Pimentel, follows the life of a secluded college student who, in the search for genuine connection, unexpectedly gains fame as a covert street artist. Using graffiti as his canvas, he shares his personal story through vandalism, drawing inspiration from street art icon, Banksy.
15. All the Streets Are Silent: The Convergence of Hip Hop and Skateboarding (1987–1997) (2021)
Embark on an enthralling expedition as All the Streets Are Silent presents the breathtaking fusion of skateboarding and hip hop culture that pulsed through downtown New York’s arteries in the 80s and 90s. This riveting documentary, slated for release in 2021, unveils the enigmatic tale of how these two invigorating subcultures intertwined within the heartbeat of one of the world’s most impactful metropolises.
16. Make Me Famous (2021)
“Make Me Famous, “ also known as “The Brezinski Project, “ is a mesmerizing 2021 documentary film that dives deep into the vibrant art scene of New York City in the 1980s. Through the lens of painter Edward Brezinski’s fervent ambition to make his mark, the film offers viewers a colorful, wild ride through the city and beyond.
17. Happy Clothes: A Film About Patricia Field (2023)
Get ready to dive into the world of fashion and extraordinary storytelling as Happy Clothes: A Film About Patricia Field takes the stage! Releasing in 2023, this compelling documentary offers an up-close and personal look at the life and career of iconic Emmy-winning costume designer, Patricia Field.
