Exit Through the Gift Shop
- Review Date: January 24, 2011
- Rated: R
- Genre: Documentary
- Release Year: 2010
- Running Time: 85 minutes
Common Sense Media says
Curious docu about street artists has some strong language.
- Review Date: January 24, 2011
- Rated: R
- Genre: Documentary
- Release Year: 2010
- Running Time: 85 minutes
Exit Through the Gift Shop gallery
What parents need to know
Positive role models
Violence
Sex
Language
Consumerism
Drinking, drugs, & smoking
Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this fascinating documentary features street artists whom some may label as subversive; their work is incredible and dynamic, but some consider them vandals. Also, questions have been raised about the veracity of the film's lead subject, though that actually heightens the interest in watching it. Expect some swearing ("f--k" and "s--t") and an examination of a type of art that purposefully crosses a line -- a point that might intrigue some teens.
User reviews
Parents say
Kids say
What's the story?
Thierry Guetta, a former Los Angeles shopkeeper, turns accidental documentary filmmaker and artist in EXIT THROUGH THE GIFT SHOP. Guetta is an avid videographer, and street artists became his favorite subject. After hobnobbing with the likes of such artists as Swoon and Shepard Fairey, who became famous for his rendition of Barack Obama’s countenance, Guetta befriended the famously reclusive Banksy, who gives him the task of attempting to make art himself. Guetta becomes Mr. Brainwash and takes to the task immediately, deciding to create a massive show and hyping it up in the media.
Is it any good?
QUALITY
This rags-to-artists tale is compelling, indeed, and every frame is worth watching. Guetta is a strangely fascinating subject, both as a documentarian wannabe and as an artist wannabe who captivates. (His show was hugely attended.) The film affords an appealing, if slightly roundabout, look at the world of street art -- the thrill of the process, the lure of the rebellion.
But you can’t help wondering, as you watch, whether we, as viewers, have become part of someone’s subversive art piece. The film, after all, is directed by Banksy, who’s presented here as a subject but then ends up documenting the filmmaker. Confused? Not surprising -- but, hey, it’s an adventure nonetheless.
Families can talk about...
Families can talk about street art: What makes it so compelling? What do the artists get out of creating it? What do viewers get?
Is graffiti vandalism or art?
What about the documentary filmmaker, Thierry, whose work is central to the film? What kind of artist is he?
Movie details
| Theatrical release date: | January 24, 2010 |
| DVD release date: | December 14, 2010 |
| Cast: | Banksy, Rhys Ifans, Thierry Guetta |
| Director: | Banksy |
| Studio: | Oscilloscope Pictures |
| Genre: | Documentary |
| Run time: | 85 minutes |
| MPAA rating: | R |
| MPAA explanation: | some language |
Great handpicked alternatives
For kids who love interesting people
Browse more movies
Top advice and articles
What parents and kids say
Share your thoughts with other parents and kids Write a user review
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines
QUALITY
Fantastic, engaging documentary that will appeal to teens
I thought this was a fantastic up lifting story. I would recommend googling the movie after you watch it to find the interviews with the editors which are fantastic as well. This is an amazing true story. I would classify it as a character study as well as about street art. It is really about following one's passions. Note: As others have said this is abotu street art not grafitii. The language in the film may be an issue for younger kids.
What other families should know
Was this review useful?
QUALITY
Very good movie, I thought it was a little bit too much about that stupid guy, Terri, but other than that very well made. A must see movie for sure.
What other families should know
Too much swearing
Was this review useful?
QUALITY
A intersting look into street art, but not graffiti
This documentary can be challenged by many, saying "It isn't real." Directed by street artist Banksy, it showcases the personal lives of the artists, while also (possibly) shows Banksy real face, as possible alter ego Thierry. Very intresting. Check it out if you see it in a store.
Was this review useful?
Poll
What are the different ways that you access Common Sense Media ratings and information? (Check all that apply)
What are the different ways that you access Common Sense Media ratings and information? (Check all that apply)
Total votes: 760