The Nasty Terrible T-Kid 170: Julius Cavero

Julius Cavero narrates Carly Starr Brullo Niles's documentary about Cavero's life as a graffiti artist. Cavero, who is of Peruvian descent, grew up in the Bronx, and can't imagine living anywhere else. He views what he does as art, and does not understand the point of simply spray-painting one's name in block letters, which he considers just tagging. Cavero, who liked to draw when he was a kid, got into graffiti in the 1970s when he saw other youths decorating a subway train. Around the same time, he joined a gang after they threatened to beat him up, but then left when he realized they had no interest in his welfare. Graffiti kept Cavero out of violent criminal activity, and he defends his work from claims of vandalism, saying that as a member of the public why shouldn't he put his stamp on public property? This is a rather dubious argument, logic-wise, but Niles features commentary from British rapper Goldie, Style Wars director Henry Chalfant, and others who agree. As Chalfant puts it, "I think he's one of the warriors. He's totally relevant in this world today.” Unfortunately, Niles used Skype for these interviews, so the sound and visual quality approximate vintage VHS tape. Nonetheless, Cavero has also been involved with commercial projects, including gallery shows and installations throughout Europe. The director follows Cavero on these trips, in addition to tagging along for some late-night graffiti expeditions. Although Cavero mentions a stint in prison for drug possession and a battle with addiction, there isn't much information here about his personal life, other than mention of a daughter. While greater detail might have made this a more involving portrait, it should still be considered a strong optional purchase. Aud: C, P. (K. Fennessy)