Commissioned by BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music) itself, BAM 150, directed by Michael Sládek, is not just a documentary about the Academy, but also the history of performing arts in New York. Using archival footage as well as passionate interviews with artists and leaders, this film inspires as well as entertains.
“In 1861, Brooklyn was a cultural backwater, dwarfed by the artistic achievements of its wealthy neighbor across the East River. The establishment of the Brooklyn Academy of Music, however, began to put the borough on the map. Michael Sládek’s lovingly crafted documentary takes us through BAM’s colorful history and behind the scenes like never before at the nation’s oldest performing arts center. Central to the story is the relentless determination and sharp vision of BAM’s leaders, enabling survival in tough times and establishing the institution as a creative home for such greats as Pina Bausch, Robert Wilson, Merce Cunningham, and Mark Morris. -Genna Terranova“
Even though the interviews with artists such as Alan Rickman and Maggie Gyllenhaal are interesting, the most fascinating aspect is the profile of Harvey Lichtenstein, the executive director of BAM from 1967 to 1999. His vision and legacy truly transformed the rundown academy into the success it is today. Promoting several avant garde artists, Lichtenstein gave many the chance to shine and in doing so elevated BAM”s credibility in the world of modern art.
Equally impressive is the amount of archival footage that was found documenting BAM’s history. From the film of the 1903 fire to the police controlling a 1968 performance of The Living Theater, the authenticity is captivating. Rather than a constant voiceover or too many close ups of interviewees, the film relies upon action to tell the story and keeps a constant level of interest.
I’ve been a newsletter subscriber of the BAM since my migration to New York City in 2007 and even though I don’t get out there often, I always love receiving the newsletter, as it’s a visually stunning piece of graphic design. Sladek‘s style, from the opening to closing credits, borrows from the current BAM promotional materials and the result is a film that could easily be shown at the cinema as a work of art.
Rating: Even though those familiar with BAM will enjoy, the film is mostly beneficial to those who have no knowledge of any performing arts, as the history of live performance is very engaging and would be a fantastic educational piece for students who are not exposed to it in their immediate community. 10/10
Tribeca Film Festival – BAM 150
Check the Box Office for more details. Download a PDF of the 2012 Film Guide.
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