kbrzoznowski

I knew some about the artist before watching this doc, but knew more about the director (had seen other art docs by him). I came away with a new appreciation for the art Scooter does and for the way a director can match the energy of a subject. Both are vibrant, colorful and fun - in the same way that Scooter's art is playful (but with a point), the doc techniques were the perfect mirror to it. No interviews felt like throwaways, the bright animation used to illustrate talking points gave it added interest and I could see myself wanting to watch docs on a few of the side characters in this too.

This doc is a nice portrait of what it takes to put together art-related events and what it means to "do" art in NYC (and other places). Whether you're into art or not though, there are enough interesting characters in the film that you'd be engaged in the story anyway. The artists in it are certainly an eclectic group—some funny, some oddballs, all with plenty of personality. It's cool though to hear an honest account of what it feels like to have your artwork seen and appreciated. And also the flip side, of what it feels like to struggle to get your stuff out there. It's not like downbeat "poor me" whiny artists though. It features artists who have had varying degrees of success, most of whom are happy just to have the chance to create and have art be part of their lives.

While the documentary genre is among my favorite for films, a lot of art docs out there have failed to impress. This one, however, goes beyond just an art showcase; it has depth and direction. I found myself interested in the people behind the work, not just in the work itself. The film doesn't "glamourize" the art world either, like most others do. It shows the highs and lows of what it actually takes to pull together an art show and work with other artists. It makes you want to learn more about the other projects this group is involved with. The stylistic elements used and the way the film is shot are part of the art as well. The film gives you a real sense of how art exhibits come together, what artists go through and how they view the art world as a whole.