Customer Reviews

Stations of the Elevated [VHS]

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(2)

 

 

I saw this, years ago, and NEVER forgot it. The disclaimer should be that this is NOT a music video for Mingus (although I think he would've approved of the outcome, as it is very much in the tradition of his playing) it is also not your standard graffiti or train enthusiast's documentary, but all of these elements come together in this beautiful and patient film. The director repeatedly creates both fascinating and absurd comparisons by focusing on the most subtle details in the landscape. This is a true work of art! There are also some stunning shots of the South Bronx in it's darkest days. Highly recommended for artists working in any medium who are concerned with urban life.

after hearing stories of this movie i purchased this and was dumbfounded !! being an avid railfan, graffiti fan i was amazed how this movie is so obscure and not really heard of ... i personally like this better than "style wars" due to the rare footage of subway graffiti unavailable anywhere else "vandalism" at it heyday ...love it or hate it's art and here to stay !! although i personally think the movie should have strictly focused on the subway graffiti because who wants to see old burger king or suntan ads... alas graffiti on the subways no longer runs ...and this is a very rare look into very hard to find rare footage of the "subway art movement" it has gone the way of the buffalo....brings back that oldschool feeling ! sorry to say the mingus music comes second to the "heaven is life" "and earth is HELL" masterpiece running like it did thru the boogie down !

As a former NYC master graffiti artist (circa 1971-74) I can attest to the fact that this movie is without peer. A historic document that brings back such strong memories of my very early youth sometimes I can't watch the whole thing without a brake.

If you are looking for a terrific example of Mingus' music, do not buy this. However, if you are interested in watching a good 'art' film set to good music, then check this out. I would recommend this video to music and film lovers, however you must have an open mind. The use of Mingus' music is very delicate, yet effective. It is slow to start, so do not discount it in the first 5 minutes. A worthy buy, but not essential for Mingus fans.

i had a lot of trouble trying to get this in my country,especally on original format(vhs)so i tracked down a copy on dvd,it was a trip back in time,it was a great doco,however i didnt think it was as good as i expected,but i still think its worth a look at,but i dont think its worth the high prices the vhs copys go for..

A nice touch of the old school.It really makes you think of those same thoughts you had in those early days of writing.Music is dramatic,but it grows on you.

This is far from a railfan video. It celebrates a very dark period in New York Subway history,the late 1970's early 1980's when the thugs and vandals too over. It celebrates graffiti, which in reality is blatant vandalism. Thankfully you can visit New York today and ride subway trains virtually graffiti free, and see them for what they are, a true work of art.

This is far from a railfan video. It celebrates a very dark period in New York Subway history,the late 1970's early 1980's when the thugs and vandals too over. It celebrates graffiti, which in reality is blatant vandalism. Thankfully you can visit New York today and ride subway trains virtually graffiti free, and see them for what they are, a true work of art.