Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures is a documentary about the iconic photographer of the twentieth century and changes in art and society during his life.
Robert Mapplethorpe pushed the boundaries of modern photography and his exhibitions provoked violent protests in the streets. His photographs of flowers changed the way we view a familiar subject, and his homoerotic works resembled Renaissance paintings.
It is impossible to discuss Mapplethorpe without avoiding scandal: his many lovers, his controversial shots, and his bohemian life—with all its brilliant and unfortunate stereotypes—ranging from his wild youth with Patti Smith, living in the Chelsea Hotel to his death from AIDS.
Using archive footage and rare interviews with Robert Mapplethorpe, directors Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, have produced the first documentary about their hero since his death in 1989. This film tells the life story of Mapplethorpe, not shying away from any details, whether about his relationship with his family or perennial night raids in pursuit of adventure and new pictures.
Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures
Dir. Fenton Bailey and Randy Barbato, 108 minutes, USA, Germany, 2016,
18+
This screening is organized in collaboration with Documentary Film Center, Moscow.