If you know art, odds are you’ve heard of Banksy. His graffiti has graced walls, doors, trains, and many more objects since it started popping up in the early 1990s. There have been exhibits showcasing his artwork which is worth millions. However, he’s never sold any of it and no one knows who he is. He even released a documentary on himself called Exit Through The Gift Shop. Although that documentary is subject to debate as to whether it’s genuine or a mockumentary. Banksy Most Wanted takes a close look at the legendary street artist, his political views, the controversy surrounding him. And it looks at the several theories on who he is.
Banksy Most Wanted starts by talking about Banksy’s artwork. It looks at where it appeared, why it appeared and why it made people stand up and listen to what he’s trying to say. Those who have followed Banksy’s career will probably have already heard of most of the stunts talked about in the opening third of the documentary. But it’s still a great recap that points out why his work is so important.
After showcasing Banksy’s art, the documentary starts looking at the different theories as to who he is. Several investigative journalists have tried to solve the mystery in the past. Yet as conclusive as their findings may seem, no one has proven their theories beyond a shadow of a doubt. The theories are interesting to listen to however, and in the end it’s up to you to decide if any of them hold water.
As Banksy Most Wanted nears the end, it quickly takes a look at whether or not selling the artist’s work is morally acceptable. After all he’s not trying to make money off of it, and is only looking to speak his mind and help the world look at things a little differently. The documentary shows the viewer this and gives them an example of not only the artist’s acceptance of it but the good it can do. Thus, the documentary makers really tie things together nicely.
Banksy Most Wanted isn’t trying to give viewers anything they can’t find elsewhere on their own. The documentary more or less just gathering the information so it’s all in one place. It’s not even really trying to prove any points, or open your perspective on anything. It’s a straight-line biography on an artist who can arguably be called the most influential in the last 30 years. If you are fine with that, you will enjoy the film profusely. If you wanted to discover something new, you are looking in the wrong place.
