Watch TV Party: The Documentary

TV Party: The Documentary is a fascinating film that explores the legacy of a groundbreaking TV show that aired in New York City in the late 1970s. The film features interviews with many of the people who were involved in the making of the show, as well as archival footage of some of its most memorable moments. The TV show in question was called "TV Party," and it was hosted by Glenn O'Brien, a writer and cultural commentator who had already made a name for himself on the downtown scene. The show premiered on public access television in 1978 and ran for two seasons, attracting a huge cult following and influencing many of the artists, musicians, and writers who were coming up at the time.

"TV Party" was a unique and subversive show that mixed elements of talk shows, variety shows, and performance art. Each episode was shot live in O'Brien's apartment, which was always packed with friends, artists, and other members of the downtown community. The guests on the show were just as eclectic, ranging from Andy Warhol to Debbie Harry to Jean-Michel Basquiat.

The film explores the impact that "TV Party" had on the cultural landscape of New York City, and how it paved the way for other shows that followed in its footsteps. The show embraced a DIY aesthetic and a punk ethos that was very avant-garde for the time, and it encouraged its viewers to participate in the conversation. It was a collaborative effort, and it sought to break down the barriers between performer and audience.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is the way it explores the connections between "TV Party" and the downtown art scene of the time. O'Brien was deeply involved in that scene, and many of the artists who appeared on the show were his friends and collaborators. Basquiat, for example, was a regular guest and even collaborated with O'Brien on a film. The film offers a glimpse into the world of these artists and how they were pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.

The film also touches on some of the controversies that arose during the show's run. "TV Party" was often chaotic and unpredictable, with guests who were sometimes drunk or high, and it was not shy about pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable for TV. This led to some complaints from more conservative viewers, and even some legal trouble.

Overall, TV Party: The Documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of downtown New York City culture, or in the evolution of underground TV. It offers a fascinating look back at a show that was ahead of its time, and at the people who made it happen. The film is a true celebration of the DIY spirit and the power of collaboration, and it reminds us that sometimes the most interesting things happen when we take risks and break the rules.