Movies - Basquiat

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	Movies - Basquiat

Basquiat (pronounced ) is a 1996 film directed by Julian Schnabel which is loosely based on the life of American postmoderninst artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

Basquiat, born in Brooklyn, used his graffiti roots as a foundation to create collage-style paintings on canvas. His surroundings and lifestyle in New York City contributed and featured in his basic images, along with seemingly-unrelated words and phrases placed among the colours. His style was described as nervous, fierce and energetic.

As director, Schnabel is often found painting himself into the film by adding the fictional stand-in character, Albert Milo, based on Schnabel. Schnabel also leaves a bit more of himself in the film by adding cameo appearances by his own mother, father, and daughter. (All as the character Milo's family.) Not to be left out entirely, Julian Schnabel is an extra in a scene at Mr. Chow's restaurant where Basquiat and Warhol are dining.

Basquiat died of a heroin overdose in 1988. The estate of Basquiat would not grant permission for his work to be used in the film. Schnabel himself did the accurate reproductions of Basquiat's work that appeared in the film.

Another film related to Basquiat -- Downtown 81 (a recut version of New York Beat Movie (1981) -- provides an in-depth look at New York City based on the time Jean-Michel Basquiat was an inspiring artist. Shot in New York City around 1981, was lost for ten years until early 1990's when the film was reproduced under a different name. It has been re-released.

Jeffrey Wright portrays the role of Jean-Michel Basquiat, and David Bowie plays Basquiat's friend and mentor Andy Warhol. Additional cast include Gary Oldman, Michael Wincott, Dennis Hopper, Claire Forlani, Courtney Love and Benicio Del Toro in supporting roles. Vincent Gallo, a friend and former band mate of Basquiat's also has a small cameo appearance.

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Movies - Basquiat

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