The attempts by the art establishment to draw the elusive but undeniably talented artist Banksy into its exclusive confines have predictably caused a reassessment of definitions and genres. It’s only fitting, then, that a documentary about the artist would generate similar confusion. Exit Through the Gift Shop focuses on Thierry Guetta, a French immigrant and aspiring filmmaker in Los Angeles who eventually infiltrates the underground street art community and befriends Banksy. As Guetta documents Banksy’s exploits, he slowly establishes an artistic profile of his own as “Mr. Brainwash,” leaving the audience to wonder who is subject and who is filmmaker. Although unable to decide if it should be labeled a documentary or “prankumentary,” critics and audiences universally praise the film for its engaging portrait of both men and their art.

Presented as part of the Depth of Field 2011-2012 Series: Art and Culture in Transit(ion)

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