
Director Tamra Davis pays homage to her friend in this definitive documentary but also delves into Basquiat as an iconoclast. His dense, bebop-influenced neoexpressionist work emerged while minimalist, conceptual art was the fad; as a successful black artist, he was constantly confronted by racism and misconceptions. Much can be gleaned from insider interviews and archival footage, but it is Basquiat's own words and work that powerfully convey the mystique and allure of both ... (Full plot summary below)
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Director Tamra Davis pays homage to her friend in this definitive documentary but also delves into Basquiat as an iconoclast. His dense, bebop-influenced neoexpressionist work emerged while minimalist, conceptual art was the fad; as a successful black artist, he was constantly confronted by racism and misconceptions. Much can be gleaned from insider interviews and archival footage, but it is Basquiat's own words and work that powerfully convey the mystique and allure of both the artist and the man.
Leave your thoughts about Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child.
| About.comJennifer MerinAs artist and personality, Basquiat is a mesmerizing character with a fascinating story. Tamra Davis has done a wonderful job of sharing her insights into his life, ethos and aesthetic. |
| Weekly PressKam WilliamsIt's still better to flameout than to fade away. |
| Reeling ReviewsLaura Clifford...may not be a well-rounded portrait of the man, but it's a powerful look at the artist. |
| Philadelphia InquirerCarrie RickeyDavis does the most thorough job of capturing Basquiat, man, artist, and life force. |
| Los Angeles TimesKevin ThomasA remarkably rich documentary possessing depth, range, insight and compassion. |
| ComingSoon.netEdward DouglasJust a brilliantly-realized look at this influential artist, and really the definitive word on why he had such an impact. |
| New York PostV.A. MusettoTalking heads include friends, fellow artists, art dealers and former girlfriends. One contributor is Julian Schnabel, the painter and filmmaker who directed the 1996 biopic "Basquiat." |
| The New York TimesStephen HoldenIt places Basquiat's art in a cultural context with an enthusiasm and zest that make the many pictures shown come blazingly alive. |
| The A.V. ClubKeith PhippsThe artist's arresting images speak for themselves, even though now only the bystanders are left to tell his story. |
| Portland OregonianShawn LevyThis is the first full-length movie about his painting and his being that gets anywhere near close to comprehending both. |