Review of Tattoo Nation (2013) by Alex R — 07 Nov 2013

Brilliant film on the tattoo boom in America, Tattoo Nation chronicles the rise in popularity of the tattoo art form. Before tattoos were accepted became socially acceptable in popular culture, they were seen as marks of criminals and low lives.

Back in the 60's, Tattooing was illegal in most states, and was done in secret, and artists would not divulge their techniques. Most of the techniques were learned in prison between Chicano inmates.

Other artists learned other methods and brought something new to the medium. This is an excellent, and in depth documentary about the tattoo revolution that is a must watch for fans of tats. Some of the finest artists in the business, including Ed Hardy, Freddy Negrette, Cory Miller, Tim Hendricks and Charlie Cartwright.

This is a highly engaging picture that should be seen because tattooing is actually a beautiful art form, and when done correctly, can be a beautiful masterpiece, just because it's on your body doesn't make it look sketchy or you look trashy.

This documentary also tells as to why certain tattoo pieces are chosen by its wearers, and it's always interesting to hear the stories behind the art. Tattoo Nation gives the art form long due credibility as it shouldn't be something to be frowned upon.

I strongly believe that Tattoo artists deserve more credit for what they're doing, and what we have in this documentary is the development of the art, and how tattoos have some form of individuality.

I love tattoos, I have two of them myself and this documentary just makes me respect the level of talent that the artists have put into their work. Every part of the tattoo revolution is covered and I think that it is a fine film that tells an important story.