Review of Blank City (2011) by Jack S — 23 Apr 2011
Like young French filmmaker CÃ (C)line Danhier, I was much more familiar with the music of the bombed-out NYC of the 70s, not so much the do-it-yourself film movement. But she's done her research, got access to many of the key players of the era, and has put together a terrific documentary. From big names like Steve Buscemi and Debbie Harry (and kindred spirit John Waters in Baltimore) to those who stayed underground, Danhier really tries to cover all the bases in 94 minutes.
Interesting to see the transitions as we pass through time, from an anything-goes aesthetic, to a more self-conscious arty style, to the effects of "uptown" attention, gentrification, and the ravages of AIDS. (For me, the story intersects with my college years and early interest in this work as we're introduced to Nick Zedd, Lydia Lunch, Jim Jarmusch, Richard Kern, etc.).
Was especially impressed to see John Lurie (Lounge Lizards, Fishing With John, etc.) interviewed, as he's been laying low in recent years.
Throughout it all, we see the influence of music (from punk to "no wave" to hip-hop) and street art. It was really a special creative era, not one we're likely to see again soon in Disney-fied, trust-fund-kid New York.
This review of Blank City (2011) was written by Jack S on 23 Apr 2011.
Blank City has generally received positive reviews.
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