DIFF FILMS

FOR THE YEAR 2010

JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT: THE RADIANT CHILD

U.S.A. / 2010 / English dialogue / Colour and Black & White / HDCam / 90 mins

Genre: Documentary

Cast & Credits

Director: Tamra Davis
Producer: Alexis Manya Spraic, David Koh, Lilly Bright, Stanley Buchthal, Tamra Davis
Scriptwriter: Tamra Davis
Cinematographer: David Koh, Harry Geller, Tamra Davis
Editor: Alexis Manya Spraic
Composer: Adam Horovitz, J. Ralph, Mike Diamond

Synopsis

One of the most influential figures of the 1980s New York art scene, the late artist Jean-Michel Basquiat continues to fascinate critics and art-lovers over 20 years since his death, aged 27. From early days, tagging subway trains along the grimy Lower East Side to being feted by Andy Warhol and becoming the unlikely hero of the early 80s art scene to his drug-fuelled descent and demise only a few years later, filmmaker and friend Tamra Davis has created an authoritative and insightful account of this troubled genius. The film features a super-rare and fascinating interview with Basquiat, filmed by Davis in 1986, contributions from the key figures from the New York art world and images of his work that cannot fail to excite and confirm his status. A fascinating, tragic story that nevertheless crackles with the sheer verve and energy of Basquiat's unique, crudely beautiful work.

Contains: Parental Guidance (PG)