It describes the life of the only ever-really-important black artist in history up to now, Jean-Michelle Basquiat, and how fame and fortune can corrupt a personality.
Directed by Julian Schnabel, an artist himself, with an impressive cast (next to David Bowie, Christopher Walken and Dennis Hopper you also get Courtney Love, Benicio del Toro and Claire Forlani (woman in "Meet Joe Black") - what more could you ask of a cast?), this is a seriously interesting movie that captures the spirit of the 80s NYC artscene like no other.
Definitely weird at times, a little odd, different to the old Hollywood-crap we get stuffed with all the time, but if that's just what you like and you're interested in Art or in ANDY WARHOL, then this is a must-buy.

I loved it, really did.


Basquiat's pictures in motion!!   May 15, 2003
 7 out of 8 found this review helpful

This film is simply fantastic! It tracks the roots of the genius that is Basquiat and his rise and eventual fall from superstardom as one of New Yorks art elite. The acting is outstanding especially jeffrey wright whose portrail is amazing. Julian Schnabel's direction is second to none in bringing us both the human and the proffessional side of Basquiat and really thrusts us into the world of this great artist. A very powerful and poignant movie for everyone, both those who love Basquiat's work and those who love films. Diamond!


A WANNA BE WHO BECAME...   December 1, 2002
 15 out of 16 found this review helpful

Artist Julian Schnabel in his directorial debut captures the essence of the avant-garde art world of the late nineteen seventies through the eighties. His screenplay focuses on Jean- Michel Basquiat, a street person who started his career as an artist known for his memorable graffiti. Basquiat later catapulted to fame as the first African American artist to break out into the lily white New York art world, becoming pals with the likes of Andy Warhol. His struggle for acceptance and his inner demons ultimately proved to be too much for him, however, and at twenty eight, the world of Basquiat came to a stunning conclusion from an overdose of heroin.

The role of Basquiat is deliciously and memorably played by Jeffrey Wright who portrays Basquiat as a fey sort of soul. His stunning portrayal of the artist is neatly counter-balanced by the earthy performance of a young Benicio Del Toro, who plays Basquiat's friend. David Bowie is perfectly cast as an other worldly Andy Warhol. Dennis Hopper and Courtney Love also give compelling performances, as does Gary Oldham.

This is a quirky, surprisingly good film in the best indie tradition. It is quintessential New York in feel. Native New Yorkers will know what I mean. Others will simply have to take my word for it. Like the city, the film has something for everyone.


a down to earth portrait of art, boheme and exentricity   November 21, 2001
 2 out of 3 found this review helpful

This movie made a huge impression on me! It's heartfelt and beautyful in an honest and non-star-spangled manner!!
I don't have the words for it - just see it!!


A WANNA BE WHO BECAME...   September 21, 2001
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

Artist Julian Schnabel in his directorial debut captures the essence of the avante garde art world of the late nineteen seventies through the eighties. His screenplay focuses on Jean-Michel Basquiat, a street person, who started his career as an artist known for his memorable graffiti. Basquiat later catapulted to fame as the the first African-American artist to break out into the lily white New York art world, becoming pals with the likes of Andy Warhol. His struggle for acceptance and his inner demons ultimately proved to be too much for him, however, and at the age of twenty eight, the world of Basquiat camed to a stunning conclusion from an overdose of heroin.

The role of Basquiat is deliciously and memorably played by Jeffrey Wright, who portrays Basquiat as a fey sort of soul. His stunning portrayal of the artist is neatly counterbalanced by the earthy performance of a young Benicio Del Toro, who plays the role of Basquiat's friend. David Bowie is perfectly cast as an other worldly Andy Warhol. Dennis Hopper and Courtney Love also give compelling performances, as does Gary Oldham.

This is a quirky, surprisingly good film in the best tradition of independent filmmakers. It is quintessential New York in feel. Native New Yorkers will know what I mean. Others will simply have to take my word for it. Like the city, the film has something for everyone.