Bill Cunningham New York is a inspiring documentary about the photographer behind the popular New York Times On the Street style column. Given the subject matter it could have been a niche film, only catering to those who luuuuvvvvv fashuunn (fashionista voice) and pride themselves on memorizing designer catwalks, fashion editors, and the latest “it” handbag. But it’s much more than that. A peek into the world of a true New York character, and a man who will do anything for a photograph.
Cunningham is admitedly not the most technical photographer but he has a talent for capturing a moment, an emerging trend and those with unique style no matter their background. It’s a skill he has honed over decades working for Details, The Chicago Tribune and Women’s Wear Daily. We tag along as he rides through New York on his bicycle (he’s in his early eighties?!) stopping briefly to take a snap or enjoy a “not too fancy” deli sandwich. And for a man so enamored by fashion he lives in a modest closet of an apartment and wears one outfit: a simple blue working class smock and in rainy times: plastic ponchos that he repairs with duck tape. It’s awwwwww inspiring. It’s hard to deny his influence on popular street style blogs such as the Satorialist and Jak&Jil to name a few and interviews from friends and colleagues show that his talent is matched by his compassion. Again, awww. I haven’t been this charmed by a film or a person in a long time. So I say… See this film.
“The best fashion show is definitely on the street.” -Bill Cunningham
Bill Cunningham New York is playing at Film Forum until Thursday 4/7. For other cities and to watch the trailer, check out the site.
