Wild Style

Directed by Charlie Ahearn (USA, 1983, 82 min.). Digital. English with open captions.

Celebrate the closing weekend of “Writing the Future: Basquiat and the Hip-Hop Generation” with a free outdoor screening of Wild Style, introduced live by director Charlie Ahearn and Fab 5 Freddy, who conceived of the film with Ahearn and served as its musical director. 

One of the earliest records of hip-hop culture, this classic story of young graffiti artists in 1980s New York City follows a legendary but covert graffiti writer, “Zoro,” played by Lee Quiñones; his girlfriend and fellow artist, Rose, played by Lady Pink; and Phade, played by Fab 5 Freddy, as they navigate the tensions of creating art on the subways, on canvas for the art world elite, and on city walls for a broad public in the Lower East Side. With unparalleled footage of paint-covered subway cars, breakdancing, freestyle MCing, and some of hip-hop’s godfathers in action—including Rock Steady Crew, the Cold Crush Brothers, Grandmaster Flash, and Rammellzee—Wild Style is an essential look at one of the most electrifying moments in New York’s history.

Watch the trailer.

The film begins at sundown, around 8 pm. Bring your own blanket or low chairs (maximum 3 feet high), a picnic supper, and nonalcoholic beverages to enjoy during the film. Space is limited; arrive early to guarantee your spot.

In case of inclement weather, the screening will move indoors to Remis Auditorium; limited seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. This decision will be made on the day of the film.