Uploaded September 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 days ago
Follows Basquiat's life pre-fame and how New York City, the times, the people and the movements surrounding him formed the artist he became. Using never-before-seen works, writings and photographs, director Sara Driver, who was part of the New York arts scene herself, worked closely and collaboratively with friends and other artists who emerged from that period: Jim Jarmusch, James Nares, Fab Five Freddy, Glenn O’Brien, Kenny Scharf, Lee Quinones, Patricia Field, Luc Sante and many others. Drawing upon their memories and anecdotes, the film also uses period film footage, music and images to visually re-recreate the era, drawing a portrait of Jean-Michel and Downtown New York City -pre AIDS, President Reagan, the real estate and art booms – before anyone was motivated by money and ambition. The definition of fame, success and power were very different than today – to be a penniless but published poet was the height of success, until everything changed in the early 1980s. This is New York City's story before that change.
Directed by Sara Driver
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Magnolia Selects is a curated collection of films and television series that spans across all genres, brought to you by Magnolia Pictures. Whether you are a sophisticated moviegoer looking for exceptional independent film with standout performances, top award-winning documentaries, hilarious comedies, or you are looking to immerse yourself in the greatest collection of adrenaline-pumping action, Magnolia Selects represents some of the very best in storytelling from the most renowned visual artists in the world today.
Follows Basquiat's life pre-fame and how New York City, the times, the people and the movements surrounding him formed the artist he became. Using never-before-seen works, writings and photographs, director Sara Driver, who was part of the New York arts scene herself, worked closely and collaboratively with friends and other artists who emerged from that period: Jim Jarmusch, James Nares, Fab Five Freddy, Glenn O’Brien, Kenny Scharf, Lee Quinones, Patricia Field, Luc Sante and many others. Drawing upon their memories and anecdotes, the film also uses period film footage, music and images to visually re-recreate the era, drawing a portrait of Jean-Michel and Downtown New York City -pre AIDS, President Reagan, the real estate and art booms – before anyone was motivated by money and ambition. The definition of fame, success and power were very different than today – to be a penniless but published poet was the height of success, until everything changed in the early 1980s. This is New York City's story before that change.
Directed by Sara Driver
Streaming now on Magnolia Selects, Start Your Free Trial Today!
Follow Magnolia Selects on Instagram: @MagnoliaSelects
Follow Magnolia Selects on X: @MagnoliaSelects
Follow Magnolia Selects on Facebook: @MagnoliaSelects
Magnolia Selects is a curated collection of films and television series that spans across all genres, brought to you by Magnolia Pictures. Whether you are a sophisticated moviegoer looking for exceptional independent film with standout performances, top award-winning documentaries, hilarious comedies, or you are looking to immerse yourself in the greatest collection of adrenaline-pumping action, Magnolia Selects represents some of the very best in storytelling from the most renowned visual artists in the world today.
