Several filmmakers have found compelling material in the works of public artists, especially in their sometimes controversial relationships and public image. We do not condone any illegal actsinstead, we recommend these films as illustrations of the challenges modern street artists face in creating their works. These films may focus on a particular scene, or on an individual artist. For anyone interested in learning more about public art, especially its more rebellious forms, they are required viewing.Beautiful Losers (2008): This film documents the interconnectivity of the 1990s DIY movement, which ties into skateboarding, street art, and alternative music. Directed by Aaron Rose and Joshua Leonard, the film shows the mindset of the artists through extensive interviews, revealing that widespread acclaim and fame in the art world is one of the farthest things from their mind.Bomb It (2008): Jon Reiss, a documentary filmmaker and music video director for bands like Nine Inch Nails, Danzig, and Slayer, created this look at graffiti art across the world. The documentary tackled difficult questions such as whether modern graffiti artists violated the popular “Quality of Life” laws arising around the world, and who has ownership over public space. Popular artists interviewed for the film include TAKI 183, Blek le Rat, and Ron English.Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010): This recent documentary has been questioned for its authenticity (similar to the even more recent I’m Still Here, which was revealed to be a mockumentary). The film is directed by legendary street artist Banksy and centered around Thierry Guetta. Guetta is a French immigrant living in L.A. and entranced by the street art scene around him. He continuously films the artists and artwork he sees, eventually transforming into an artist himself (Mr. Brainwash) as Banksy compiles his thousands of hours of footage into a watchable film. The film received widespread praise, despite the doubts to its authenticity.RASH (2005): Nicholas Hansen wrote and directed this portrait of the urban Australia street art scene. Part of the film deals with the efforts of the local councils to prepare the city for the 2006 Commonwealth Games, and the artists that believe their works offer the truest representation of the city. Artists featured in the film include Chali 2na, HAHA, James Dodd, MEEK, SIXTEN, and VEXTA. The film is available directly from the creators at www.rashfilm.com.