In 1981, Jean-Michel Basquiat was a 19-year-old graffiti artist living on the streets. Eight years later, he was a world-renowned painter — and the tragic victim of his own addiction. This film chronicles his meteoric rise in New York’s art world, his anguish over his family, and his hatred of a society that both courted and exploited him.

Featured Clips

• 01:59

  Basquiat - René 5:11

  Down in Jean-Michel's basement space, René tries to help Jean-Michel focus on what's really important. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Rene Ricard (Michael Wincott)
• 02:46

  Basquiat - Sell Out

  A deal with Bischofberger may have cost Jean-Michel his last friend. In this scene: Rene Ricard (Michael Wincott), Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Andy Warhol (David Bowie), Bruno Bischofberger (Dennis Hopper), Albert Milo (Gary Oldman), Mary Boone (Parker Posey)
• 02:22

  Basquiat - He Cares About You

  In the wake of the article, Jean-Michel has dinner over Albert Milo's house, where Albert reassures him of his friendships—especially his one with Andy Warhol. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Albert Milo (Gary Oldman)
• 03:25

  Basquiat - Exploitation

  When a reporter asks Jean-Michel to decipher his work for him, the interview quickly turns into an interrogation. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Interviewer (Christopher Walken)
• 02:20

  Basquiat - Time to Develop

  Even though his works may not be on display, Jean-Michel still manages to make a bold statement while working in the art gallary. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Electrician (Willem Dafoe), Mary Boone (Parker Posey), Albert Milo (Gary Oldman)
• 01:58

  Basquiat - We'll Take the Green One

  When Annina brings the Krugers to Jean-Michel's studio, it becomes clear to Gina that Jean Michel's changed—and it's not a good thing. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Gina Cardinale (Claire Forlani)
• 03:05

  Basquiat - John Henry and Andy Warhol

  John-Michel and Benny are talking about art and integrity when, lo and behold, Andy Warhol suddenly appears. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Benny Dalmau (Benicio Del Toro), Andy Warhol (David Bowie), Bruno Bischofberger (Dennis Hopper)
• 02:24

  Basquiat - We Had Lunch Once

  René makes good on his promise by packing Jean-Michel's gallery show with very important people. In this scene: René Ricard (Michael Wincott), Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Bruno Bischofberger (Dennis Hopper), Gina Cardinale (Claire Forlani)
• 02:00

  Basquiat - You're Late

  Jean-Michel goes to pick up Benny, but his new fame has clearly taken a toll on their friendship. In this scene: Jean-Michel Basquiat (Jeffrey Wright), Benny Dalmau (Benicio Del Toro)