Bomb It 2

Bomb It 2 is a piece of film-making that really changes how one sees graffiti, not as vandalism but an idea, a piece of art and someone's voice. Not only does the director take into account each artist individual account of their artwork but also what graffiti means to their country, government or regime. Speaking through a can of paint sends a powerful message especially in a place like the West Bank, China, or Palestine.The fact that film can remain unbiased and merely be a catalyst for the artists' voices is impressive considering the current dynamics of the world that we now live in. Politics play a minor role in the film rather than dictate it. Rather the paint and the pieces do the talking. Just looking at artists like Banksy who sell their paintings for thousands of dollars it does resonate that graffiti is being taken and abused in someway. In the end graffiti began on the streets and is for people to enjoy for free. It's about a story for some, discovering what is inside their own instincts, their sub-conscience and painting it for the world to see. Its not just a film about a can of paint, but human emotions, and how they are affected by the world that they live in. That's the genius of Bomb It 2.

Where it's predecessor offers a thorough overview of the origins of graffiti art, Bomb It! 2 delves deeper into the people and cultures that risk their lives (Singapore, Jakarta, etc.) in order to express themselves. An eye-opening look at the power of graffiti in terms of changing a culture.

A killer soundtrack caries us on a journey around the world where graffiti isn't necessarily as common place as it is in western countries. This is a serious fight for freedom of expression. Bomb It 2 shows street art culture beyond Banksy, where unknowns in little pockets of cities are making their mark, in order to change the world perhaps? Everyon has their reasons, but either way I'm on board.

Reiss' no holds-barred documentary bridges inter-cultural gaps we didn't even no existed. He redefines "graffiti" from illicit hobby to expression of the soul- a rare art form where people are able to influence their environment as much as their environment influences them. BI2 reminds us to unleash our passion, there's almost always a place for it. It's not enough for Reiss to stay in one place- instead he brings us around the globe- exploring this intriguing sub-culture with countless characters. I knew nothing about graffiti before watching this movie. All I knew was that it was illegal and looked down upon. Now I see it's not just a juvenile expression of disdain for society- instead it's the opposite. It's an expression of the soul- an artistic and human release for many people who might not have any other available. Without graffiti, one character even says he wouldn't know what he'd do with his life. It's not about disgracing property- it's about expressing yourself within your environment, and actually changing that environment to become an extension of yourself.

Chris Bashinelli - Host and Executive Producer of "Bridge the Gap" on PBS

Bomb It 2 starts off where Bomb It left off. Instead of looking at the history of graffiti like in the original (I recommend that you watch them in order), BI2 dives head first into what artists are doing now. Director Jon Reiss traveled across six continents (rumor is Antarctica will be in BI3?) documenting different styles of graffiti art from around the world. In some places, like Palestine, street art is a means to free speech with possible deadly consequences for the artists! The artists in this movie advocate free speech and thought, a message that I totally support. Because BI2 skips the history lesson (although some of the artists talk about the history in their regions), there are way more artist spotlights and locations than the original. In that sense, this sequel has a faster pace than the first. But if you've seen both, it's a natural progression for the series. I recommend you check it out!

Jon Reiss is back at it with a follow-up to Bomb It, his hugely successful indie doc. Bomb It 2 finds Reiss exploring new territory -- indigenous street art scenes around the globe, from the streets of Singapore (interesting, considering that chewing gum is actually illegal there -- hard to imagine what the authorities would do to a graffiti artist) to Palestinian refugee camps on the West Bank. If you liked the first film, you'll love this one, too. A great insight into a world of artists who often keep their identities hidden, while making their art in the most public places possible. Reiss shot this as a one-man crew, no small feat considering the many challenges involved.