Watch Black White Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff and Robert Mapplethorpe

Black White + Gray: A Portrait of Sam Wagstaff and Robert Mapplethorpe is a documentary that delves into the lives of two men who played a significant role in shaping the art scene of New York City during the 1970s and 80s. Directed by James Crump, the film is both a biography of these two figures and a love letter to their legacy. Sam Wagstaff was a wealthy curator and collector who became one of the leading figures in the world of photography. Robert Mapplethorpe, on the other hand, was a young artist who became Wagstaff's romantic partner and muse. Together, they formed a symbiotic relationship that allowed them to explore the limits of artistic expression and challenge the norms of their time.

Through a collection of interviews with their friends, colleagues, and acquaintances, the film explores the personalities and artistic visions of these two men. It provides insight into the difficulties of being a gay artist during a time when homosexuality was widely stigmatized and often illegal. It also touches on the impact of HIV/AIDS on the art scene of the 80s.

The film is divided into chapters that focus on different aspects of Sam and Robert's lives. One chapter deals with their early years and their burgeoning relationship. Another chapter discusses their experiments with drugs and their involvement with the S&M scene. Yet another chapter delves into Sam's personal life, including his experience with drug addiction and his relationships with other men.

Throughout the film, the viewer is treated to a wealth of photographs and artwork by Mapplethorpe and other artists. The film's pacing is slow at times, allowing the viewer to fully appreciate the visual beauty of these works. At other times, it is fast-paced and filled with quick cuts, reflecting the frenetic energy of the New York art world.

One of the film's strengths lies in its exploration of the complex relationship between Sam and Robert. The two men were deeply in love, but their relationship was often fraught with tension and jealousy. Sam was frequently unhappy with Robert's infidelity and drug use, and the film does not shy away from discussing these issues. At the same time, however, the film celebrates the artistic achievements that resulted from their partnership.

Black White + Gray is a thoughtful and sensitive portrait of two men who left an indelible mark on the world of art. It captures the spirit of a particular time and place in American history, while also reflecting on universal themes such as love, loss, and the pursuit of artistic expression. Anyone with an interest in photography, modern art, or queer history will find much to appreciate in this film.