Film Forum

Hip hop multi-hyphenate Michael Holman—impresario, artist, musician (he was in a band with Basquiat), producer—is also the creator and host of the first-ever TV show focusing on the genre, Graffiti Rock, which lasted one episode in 1984, but was syndicated in 88 stations nationwide. Both a time capsule and ahead of its time, the show featured Soul Train-like dancers (including a young Debi Mazar and Vincent Gallo!) breaking and popping to guests such as Run-D.M.C., Kool Moe Dee, and Special K. It was also a lexicon on terminology (“FRESH!”) and showcased the acrobatics of the New York City Breakers: the breakdancing crew which Holman managed and choreographed, and had the distinction of wowing president Reagan at the Kennedy Center. Holman was also a party promoter and a pioneer in hip hop videomaking, with TV New York and On Beat TV being among the first rap shows on Manhattan’s cable access. Join Mr. Holman as he presents Graffiti Rock and other hip hop curiosities at a special evening. Digital. Approx. 60 min.