I’m keeping an eye out for these two new films: The Radiant Child and Downtown Calling. Asides from their primary subject matter—J.M. Basquiat and the music and art culture of NYC, respectively— they offer some clues to a pressing question: in what ways do cities/places inspire creativity? The primary stage is New York City in the mid-70s and 80s, an era marked by urban fiscal crises, rising crime and other woes. Amidst all the apparent chaos, great sounds, images and ideas flourished. How did it happen? I guess some answers are contained in these works. Hopefully, these documentaries will also add more pieces to the the academic puzzles and themes that keep me busy: social organization, migration, poverty and the city. The Radiant Child will be playing in Boston-Cambridge on September 17. I’m not sure if Downtown Calling will be making it to my adoptive city any time soon, but I’ll be waiting.
Check out this Q&A with Director Tamra Davis on the Basquiat flick, and Downtown Calling’s facebook page.
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