Graffiti as an art form has been the subject of many films over the years. These films often explore the social, political, and personal dimensions of graffiti culture. They may focus on the lives of graffiti artists, the intersection of graffiti with hip hop culture, or the conflict between street artists and law enforcement. The films about graffiti range from documentaries that aim to capture the reality of the graffiti movement to fictional narratives that use graffiti as a central theme.
Here is a list of films about graffiti with brief descriptions:
“Bomb the System”, 2002
Director: Adam Bhala Lough
A feature film about a group of graffiti writers in New York City, exploring the struggles of street art, the bonds between artists, and the conflict with the authorities aiming to stop them.
Starring: Mark Webber, Gano Grills, Jade Scott Yorker, Jaclyn DeSantis, Joey Dedio, Stephen Buchanan, Al Sapienza, Bonz Malone, Donna Mitchell, Kumar Pallana, Blake Lethem, Dylan Mikson, Joshua Gustin, KaDee Strickland, Semz, Walter Masterson, Nato Jude, Lee Quiñones, I'Kyori Swaby, Aliya Campbell, Muck, Trina Grant, Ned Stresen-Reuter, David Ley, Peter Linari, Manny Siverio, Derrick Simmons, Elliot Santiago, Nikki Bates, Quinn, Daisy Rojas, David Aldi, Raj-Ann Rekhi, Tim Dowlin, Ajay Naidu, Rocco Rosanio;
Production year: 2002;
Genre: action, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 91 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,4;
More information about the film “Bomb the System” on the website imdb.com
“Exit Through the Gift Shop”, 2010
Director: Banksy
Directed by the infamous street artist Banksy, this documentary film tells the story of Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant in Los Angeles, and his obsession with street art, blurring the lines between observer and creator.
Starring: Banksy, Mr. Brainwash, Shepard Fairey, Rhys Ifans, Debora Guetta, Space Invader, Monsieur André, Zeus, Ron English, Caledonia Curry;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: documentary, comedy, crime, history;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 87 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,9;
More information about the film “Exit Through the Gift Shop” on the website imdb.com
“Piece by Piece”, 2005
Director: Nic Hill
A documentary film chronicling the history of San Francisco's graffiti culture from the early 1980s to the present, offering interviews and perspectives from some of the city's most renowned artists.
Starring: Senor One;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: documentary;
Duration: 79 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,2;
More information about the film “Piece by Piece” on the website imdb.com
“Quality of Life”, 2004
Director: Benjamin Morgan
A drama film set in San Francisco's Mission District, focusing on two graffiti artists facing the consequences of their street art as they transition into adulthood.
Starring: Lane Garrison, Brian Burnam, Luis Saguar, Mackenzie Firgens, Tajai Massey, Fred Pitts, Andrew A. Rolfes, Bryna Weiss, Ricky R. Marshall, Ezra J. Stanley;
Production year: 2004;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 85 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,7;
“Next: A Primer on Urban Painting”, 2005
Director: Pablo Aravena
This documentary explores the global graffiti movement, featuring artists from around the world and discussing the dynamic and diverse nature of graffiti as a form of urban expression.
Starring: -;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: documentary;
Duration: 95 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “Next: A Primer on Urban Painting” on the website imdb.com
“Getting Up: The TEMPT ONE Story”, 2012
Director: Caskey Ebeling
This documentary covers the true story of LA graffiti artist Tempt-One and his battle with ALS, revealing how he continues to create art and inspire others despite his debilitating condition.
Starring: Tony «Tempt» Quan;
Production year: 2012;
Genre: documentary, biography;
Duration: 58 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8;
More information about the film “Getting Up: The TEMPT ONE Story” on the website imdb.com
Please note that some titles might be less popular or more difficult to find, and always check for the most accurate and up-to-date information on specific films.
In conclusion, the genre of graffiti films serves as a vivid canvas, chronicling the dynamic interplay between urban expression and societal constraints. As we have explored through various cinematic works, from the raw authenticity in “Style Wars” to the fictional yet evocative narrative of “Exit Through the Gift Shop,” these films provide a unique lens through which to view the subculture of street art. They not only document the struggles and triumphs of the artists behind the spray cans but also delve into the cultural impact of graffiti, questioning its place between vandalism and high art. The allure of this art form, coupled with the evolving perception of graffiti, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, offering an ever-relevant dialogue about creativity, ownership, and the desire to leave a mark on the urban landscape.
