The opening volume in a projected four-part documentary release, Through the Years of Hip Hop, Vol. 1--Graffiti takes an in-depth look at the origins and progression of this controversial "art" form, while outlining the connections between graffiti and urban culture. Tracing graffiti's origins back to cave paintings, the program examines the rise of modern graffiti or "tagging"--here attributed to youthful self-expression--offering up plenty of colorful and intricate examples (on trains, walls, etc.), while paying homage to the originators of the craft. Some of the footage is not exactly pertinent (i.e., shots of candy to illustrate happy '70s youth), and much of the personal insight from interviewees lacks focus, but off-the-beaten-spray-paint-can commentary about "cross out campaigns" (graffiti as a means of marking territory), and other political aspects, help offset the program's drawbacks. Also included are seven hip hop videos--deemed "the finest songs from 1984-1989"--from trailblazing artists such as Run D.M.C., Queen Latifah, De La Soul, Crash Crew and Dana Dane. A creative, though flawed, perspective on the origins of modern graffiti, this is an optional purchase for those without similar fare such as Graffiti Veritè (VL-5/96). Aud: H, C, P. (J. Williams)
Through the Years of Hip Hop Vol. 1--Graffiti
(2001) 90 min. VHS: $12.95, DVD: $19.95. Music Video Distributors (avail. from most distributors). Color cover. Volume 17, Issue 4
Through the Years of Hip Hop Vol. 1--Graffiti
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: