Exit Through the Gift Shop
The world's first Street Art disaster movie...
Overview
Banksy is a graffiti artist with a global reputation whose work can be seen on walls from post-hurricane New Orleans to the separation barrier on the Palestinian West Bank. Fiercely guarding his anonymity to avoid prosecution, Banksy has so far resisted all attempts to be captured on film. Exit Through the Gift Shop tells the incredible true story of how an eccentric French shop keeper turned documentary maker attempted to locate and befriend Banksy, only to have the artist turn the camera back on its owner.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
The film arrived during a peak in the popularity of street art, just as artists like Banksy were gaining mainstream recognition. It cleverly critiques the commercialization of this once-underground movement and the sometimes-absurd nature of art collecting and valuation.
- It raises profound questions about the nature of art, authorship, and authenticity in the contemporary art world.
- The film's narrative is engaging and unpredictable, constantly shifting perspectives and leaving the viewer questioning what's real and what's fabricated.
- It offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the world of street art and its leading figures, including Banksy.
- It's thought-provoking and entertaining, prompting viewers to reconsider their own preconceptions about art and value.
Fun Facts
- Many believe that 'Mr. Brainwash' (Thierry Guetta) is a creation or persona orchestrated by Banksy himself, blurring the lines between documentary and performance art.
- The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, further fueling the debate about its authenticity.