At Rock The Bells, we understand the allure and impact of street art and graffiti as powerful forms of self-expression. These art forms, born from the streets and walls of urban landscapes, have captivated audiences worldwide. To celebrate their significance, we have curated a list of the 10 best street art and graffiti documentaries available for streaming.

Join us on this artistic journey as we explore the vibrant world of street art and graffiti through these captivating films.

Style Wars (1983)

Considered a cornerstone of street art documentaries, Style Wars takes us back to the birth of graffiti art in 1980s New York City.

Directed by Tony Silver, this film captures the competitive spirit and creative energy of young graffiti writers as they express themselves on subway trains and city walls. Through vivid interviews and visually stunning scenes, Style Wars provides a raw and authentic portrayal of the graffiti subculture.

Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010)

Directed by the elusive street artist Banksy, Exit Through the Gift Shop is an enthralling documentary that offers an intimate glimpse into the underground world of graffiti and street art. As the film unfolds, it reveals unexpected twists and turns, blurring the lines between art, commerce, and authenticity. Banksy's unique storytelling approach challenges conventional notions of art, leaving viewers questioning the very nature of creativity.

Bomb It (2007)

Traversing the globe, Bomb It explores the global reach and impact of graffiti art. Directed by Jon Reiss, this documentary features interviews with prominent graffiti artists from various cultures and backgrounds. It showcases the rebellious nature of graffiti as a tool for self-expression, social commentary, and urban activism. Bomb It sheds light on the resilience of these artists and the power of their work to challenge societal norms.

Wall Writers (2016)

Wall Writers, directed by Roger Gastman, is a compelling documentary that delves into the origins of graffiti art in Philadelphia and New York City during the late 1960s and early 1970s. The film features interviews with the pioneers of this movement, providing firsthand accounts of their motivations, struggles, and the cultural impact of their art. Wall Writers offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of graffiti and its transformation into a global phenomenon.

Graffiti Verite: Read the Writing on the Wall (1995)

Directed by Bob Bryan, Graffiti Verite takes a comprehensive and insightful look at the world of Los Angeles graffiti art. Through interviews and footage of artists at work, the documentary explores the motivations, artistic techniques, and social implications of this unique art form. Graffiti Verite provides a deeper understanding of the relationship between graffiti artists and the communities they inhabit.

Piece by Piece: The History of San Francisco Graffiti Documented (2005)

Directed by Nic Hill, Piece by Piece delves into the rich history of graffiti and street art in San Francisco. The film chronicles the evolution of the scene and features interviews with influential artists, revealing the diverse styles and techniques that have shaped the city's urban landscape. It provides a deeper understanding of the significance of street art within a specific cultural context.

Basquiat (1996)

Basquiat tells the story of the legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat. Though not entirely centered on street art, the film captures Basquiat's journey from a street artist to a critically acclaimed painter. It sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of an artist who left an indelible mark on the art world and continues to inspire street artists today.

Kings and Toys (1997)

Directed by the UK's Skiny, the film explores the highs and lows of graffiti culture across the pond. Check out his recollections of the 250 hours of footage he sifted through which he distilled down to 35 minutes for Channel 4.

Rolling Like Thunder (2021)

While some writers prefer Heaven's Spots, others look at the behemoths that are freight trains as they preferred canvas. Directed by Roger Gastman, Rolling Like Thunder explores a less talked about facet of graffiti culture .

Infamy (2005)

Infamy explores the underground world of graffiti art and its impact on society. Directed by Doug Pray and released in 2005, the documentary takes an in-depth look at the lives and motivations of several prominent graffiti artists in cities such as Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco.

The film delves into the controversial nature of graffiti, examining both the artistic value and the legal ramifications of this form of expression. The film features interviews with renowned graffiti artists such as Saber, Toomer, and Earsnot, who discuss their experiences, motivations, and the challenges they face in pursuing their art.