Watch GRAFFITI VERITE' 28 From The Bones - Luis J. Rodriguez

Graffiti Verite' 28 (GV28) Who Am I?: Wisdom From The Bones - Luis J. Rodriguez is a powerful documentary film that explores the life of Luis J. Rodriguez, a renowned Chicano author, poet, and activist. Directed by Bob Bryan and produced by Bryan World Productions, the film is a part of the Graffiti Verite' series, which aims to showcase the art and culture of graffiti and hip-hop.

The film takes us on a journey through the life of Luis J. Rodriguez, from his childhood in El Paso, Texas, to his teenage years in Watts, Los Angeles. Through interviews with Rodriguez, his friends, family, and colleagues, as well as archival footage and photographs, the film paints a vivid picture of his life and career.

Rodriguez began writing poetry at a young age, as a way to express his feelings and thoughts about the world around him. He found inspiration in the Chicano movement, which was taking place in California in the 1960s and 1970s. Rodriguez became involved in the movement, and he used poetry and writing as a way to raise awareness about social and political issues that affected the Chicano community.

In the film, we see how Rodriguez's experiences living in poverty, facing racism and discrimination, and grappling with addiction and mental health issues shaped his worldview and his writing. Rodriguez speaks candidly about his struggles with addiction and how he was able to overcome them with the help of his wife and children.

Throughout the film, we see how Rodriguez's writing evolved over time, from his early poetry to his acclaimed memoir, Always Running: La Vida Loca, Gang Days in L.A. The book, which was published in 1993, was a sensation and became a bestseller. It chronicles Rodriguez's experiences growing up in South Central LA, his involvement in gang culture, and his eventual escape from it.

At the core of the film is the idea of identity and the question of who we are. Rodriguez uses his own life story as a way to explore the complexity and diversity of the Chicano experience. He talks about the importance of knowing your own history and culture, and how that can give you a sense of belonging and purpose.

The film also touches on the role of art and culture in social and political movements, and how graffiti and hip-hop have been used as forms of protest and expression. Rodriguez is a strong advocate for the power of art to change the world, and he talks about how he has used his writing to raise awareness about issues like gang violence, incarceration, and immigration.

Overall, Graffiti Verite' 28 (GV28) Who Am I?: Wisdom From The Bones - Luis J. Rodriguez is a deeply personal and thought-provoking film that offers a window into the life and work of one of the most important voices in contemporary Chicano literature. It is a film that will inspire and challenge viewers to think more deeply about issues of identity, culture, and social justice.