Film & TV

Bill Cunningham: New York

Rating: PG

Running Time: 84 minutes

Release: 8 December 2011

Bill Cunningham: New York chronicles the life of eighty year old New York Times photographer who showcases two weekly columns in the popular style section. For 40 years he has been riding the streets of New York on his modest bike, sans helmet, with camera round neck poised to take a picture at any moment. All the while dodging cabs, though not always successfully. He is a conundrum, a fiercely private and a modest man who is a slave to his principles rather than money and celebrity associated with his passion for fashion.

You don’t need to even know about this humble man to enjoy this interesting reveal into his life’s work in which he has been awarded a French cultural honour. The way he lives his life, his moral code and humility is something to rejoice and behold. It is such rare in this world and particularly the one he inhabits with celebrity and socialites where he could easily be slave to the ruling money and status. However he rises above this and maintains true to his ethics and ultimately earns respect for his talent alone. It is such an inspirational film and though you know there is much more to him and you sense a hidden tragedy or past which he hides behind his always smiling face. When a documentary combines fashion, photography and NYC that’s my top three favourite things so it’s hard to go wrong, with Bill Cunningham in the mix it just takes it to a supreme level.

4/5 stars My highlight of the BAFF

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