Review of Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff and Robert Mapplethorpe (2007) by Christopher V — 24 Jan 2009

Whether you are a fan of Robert Mapplethorpe's work or not you would have to admit that he is a defining figure of the 1980s. This documentary reveals the man behind Robert's work, Sam Wagstaff. Wagstaff and Mapplethorpe were polar opposites in most every aspect of their lives and through this documentary you learn how they met, loved and lived. Mostly the film centers on the life of Wagstaff and his contributions to the art world as a collector and curator.

The film is also full of revealing interviews from people that knew both Wagstaff and Mapplethorpe. At times the opinions expressed are scathing and highly critical of Mapplethorpe. One wonders at times if this film is meant to belittle Mapplethorpe and put Wagstaff on a pedestal. The relationship of the two men is central to this film and though many close to them offer skewed opinions you have to figure the truth lies somewhere in between the opposing camps. The documentary could have been titled, The Case Against Mapplethorpe or Wagstaff the Saint.

In the end, the film is well produced, entertaining, somewhat informative and worth watching for those curious about Mapplethorpe's personal life.