Watch New York Dolls - Lookin' Fine On Television

New York Dolls - Lookin' Fine On Television is a documentary film that chronicles the rise and fall of the legendary punk rock band, the New York Dolls. The film uses a mix of archival footage and interviews with former band members and music industry insiders to tell the story of the Dolls' brief but impactful career. The New York Dolls formed in the early 1970s, when the music scene in New York City was undergoing a major transformation. The band's sound was a blend of classic rock and roll, glam rock, and punk, and their look was equally unique, with their glam-inspired makeup and flashy clothing. The band quickly developed a cult following and was signed to a record deal, but their wild lifestyle and internal tensions eventually led to their demise.

The film covers the band's early days, including their formation and first gigs at iconic venues like Max's Kansas City and the Mercer Arts Center. Interviews with former band members Sylvain Sylvain and Arthur "Killer" Kane provide insight into the band's creative process and the intense personal dynamics that made their music so powerful. We also hear from music industry insiders who worked with the Dolls during their heyday, including Seymour Stein, the legendary record executive who signed them to his label, Sire Records.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its exploration of the Dolls' role in the history of punk rock. While the band's music and image were hugely influential on later punk bands, they were not always well-received by their peers in the scene. Many saw the Dolls as too derivative of classic rock and roll, and their flamboyant presentation was seen by some as un-punk. However, as the film shows, the Dolls' impact on the punk scene cannot be overstated - they paved the way for bands like the Ramones and the Sex Pistols, and their legacy can be heard in punk music to this day.

Another major theme of the film is the tragic story of Arthur Killer Kane. Kane was a founding member of the Dolls and a talented bass player, but after the band broke up, he struggled with addiction and financial hardship. In the early 2000s, a chance encounter with a Mormon missionary led him to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and he found a new sense of purpose in his faith. The film captures Kane's journey from rock and roll excess to a life of sobriety and spirituality, culminating in a reunion concert with the surviving members of the Dolls in London in 2004.

Throughout the film, we are treated to rare footage of the New York Dolls performing live, including clips from their memorable appearance on The Midnight Special in 1973. The band's charisma and raw energy are on full display, and it's easy to see why they were such a sensation in their time. The interviews with former band members and music industry insiders provide valuable context and insight into the Dolls' impact on music history, and the story of Arthur Kane's redemption is a poignant reminder of the toll that rock and roll can take on those who live it.

Overall, New York Dolls - Lookin' Fine On Television is a well-crafted tribute to a band that was ahead of its time. The film's mix of archival footage and contemporary interviews provides a thorough overview of the Dolls' career, and its exploration of the band's legacy sheds light on the evolution of rock music. Whether you're a die-hard New York Dolls fan or just a casual listener, this film is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of punk rock and the impact of music on our culture.

New York Dolls - Lookin' Fine On Television is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 10 minutes.