Watch Bill Cunningham: New York

"Bill Cunningham: New York" is a captivating documentary that chronicles the life and work of the iconic fashion photographer and New York Times columnist, Bill Cunningham. The documentary was directed by Richard Press and released in 2010. The film follows Bill Cunningham, often dubbed the "original street style photographer," for a period of several years in the prime of his career. Drawing on interviews with Bill Cunningham himself, his friends, family, and colleagues, as well as archival footage and photographs, the film paints a vibrant portrait of a man who was deeply dedicated to his craft and to the city that inspired it.

The documentary introduces us to Bill Cunningham, who is based in New York City, as he navigates the city on his bicycle, snapping pictures of people on the street who catch his eye. We are treated to some of his most iconic images, including the "Bergdorf Goodman girls," a group of stylish young women who frequented the luxury department store.

Throughout the film, we learn more about Bill's life and personality. He is a deeply private man who eschews material possessions and lives in a cramped studio apartment surrounded by filing cabinets filled with his work. He is a devout Catholic who attends daily mass, often in his signature blue jacket and khaki trousers. He is also fiercely independent and has a stubborn streak, refusing to sell his work or compromise his artistic vision for anyone.

The film also delves into the social and cultural history of New York City, which serves as the backdrop for Bill Cunningham's work. Through Bill Cunningham's lens, we see the city during some of its most dynamic decades, from the swinging 60s to the glamorous 80s and beyond. We witness the emergence of punk rock and disco, the rise of Wall Street and consumer culture, and the impact of gentrification on the city's neighborhoods.

Along the way, we meet some of the people who played a role in Bill's life, both personally and professionally. These include Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue who considers Bill to be one of her closest confidantes, and Michael Kors, the fashion designer who credits Bill with capturing the essence of New York City style. We also meet some of the everyday New Yorkers who became Bill's muses or subjects, from the doorman at his apartment building to the fashion-forward women he spots on the street.

One of the most poignant themes of the film is the idea of passion and dedication to one's craft. Bill Cunningham is a man who has devoted his life to documenting fashion and style in New York City, and the film reveals the sacrifices he has made in order to pursue that passion. He has lived frugally, worked tirelessly, and remained fiercely independent in order to create a body of work that he is truly proud of.

Overall, "Bill Cunningham: New York" is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant tribute to a true icon of the fashion industry. Richard Press has crafted a captivating documentary that captures the essence of Bill Cunningham's life and legacy, as well as the vibrant energy of New York City. With its fascinating subject, lively cast of characters, and breathtaking imagery, this is a film that will appeal to fans of fashion, photography, and New York City alike.

Bill Cunningham: New York is a 2010 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9 and a MetaScore of 76.