Review of Bill Cunningham New York (2011) by Amber S — 25 Jul 2013

I was so inspired by the film about Bill Cunningham. A remarkable and eccentric New York street style photographer, now in his 80's who's worked for nothing since the 1950's to pursue his passion to create a narrative on life through the lens of everyday street fashion.

Although his photography and commentaries have been routinely published in various press including the Evening Times spread in the New York Times he leads a sparse yet fulfilling and happy life. He lives in a tiny almost uninhabitable garret in Carnegie Hall without kitchen or bathroom, dresses each day in a utilitarian street sweepers blue coat and spends from morning till late at night pedaling his bicycle across New York capturing images.

He is revered by the fashion movers and shakers and referred to as "the most important person in the world" due to the influence his social commentary has had on the industry. His focus is not on celebrities but on encapsulating real life because "Fashion remains no matter what social problems exist".

When asked why he won't accept payment he responds "Being paid would take away my liberty and freedom to do as I please. Anyway, it's not work it's pleasure. He who seeks beauty will find it.

I do not work I only know how to have fun each day." What an amazing individual...