Watch LA Originals

LA Originals is a Netflix documentary film that explores the rise of two Chicano street artists – Estevan Oriol and Mister Cartoon – in Los Angeles, and their impact on the city's hip-hop and tattoo culture. The film provides a visual feast of their legendary artistry, as well as glimpses of their personal lives, struggles, and legacies. It is a celebration of a unique subculture that is rooted in a fierce sense of community, resilience, and creativity.

The film begins by introducing the two protagonists and their humble beginnings. Estevan Oriol, born and raised in the barrios of LA, started as a bouncer and tour manager for Cypress Hill before becoming a sought-after photographer for the likes of Eminem, Kim Kardashian, and Kobe Bryant. Mister Cartoon, also a native Angeleno, started as a graffiti artist before honing his skills as a tattoo artist for celebrities, including Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, and Dr. Dre. Both artists are self-taught, and their work reflects their Mexican-American heritage, as well as their affinity for lowrider culture, gang symbolism, and gangsta rap.

The film then delves into the cultural and historical context of Chicano art and music, and how Oriol and Cartoon's work resonates with these traditions. They both describe their art as a way to represent their communities and to reclaim the negative stereotypes that have been associated with them. Their murals, photographs, and tattoos tell stories of resilience, resistance, and identity, and have become emblematic of the city's urban landscape.

The film also features interviews with other prominent figures in LA's hip-hop and tattoo scenes, such as Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Danny Trejo, and Travis Barker, who, in their own ways, have been influenced by Oriol and Cartoon's art. Their testimonials add depth to the film's narrative and illustrate how these artists have contributed to the evolution of the city's creative scene.

One of the film's highlights is its exploration of Oriol and Cartoon's collaborations, which have produced some of the most iconic album covers, music videos, and merchandising in the rap industry. The film shows how they use their complementary skills to create a unique aesthetic that blends Chicano art with urban fashion. They have worked with some of the biggest names in rap, such as Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, and Method Man, and have elevated their art to a global audience.

The film also portrays Oriol and Cartoon's personal lives, including their families, friendships, and struggles. They both admit to having been involved in gang life in their youth, and how they have turned their lives around through their art. Oriol talks about his relationship with his father, who was also a photographer, and how he inherited his passion for capturing LA's subcultures. Cartoon talks about his love for his mother, who passed away, and how he has used his art as a way to honor her legacy.

Finally, the film touches upon Oriol and Cartoon's legacies and their hopes for the future. They both stress the importance of giving back to their communities and inspiring the next generation of artists. LA Originals is not just a nostalgic look back at LA's past, but a call to action to preserve its cultural heritage and to celebrate its diversity.

In summary, LA Originals is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that captures the essence of LA's Chicano street art and hip-hop culture. It is a testament to the power of art to unite people from different backgrounds and to tell stories that matter. Oriol and Cartoon's art is not just a reflection of their own experiences, but a reflection of the city's collective memories, dreams, and hope for a better future. Whether you are a fan of rap music or not, LA Originals is a must-see film that showcases the best of LA's creative spirit.