If you were captivated by the raw, unfiltered storytelling of 'Ricky Powell: The Individualist' (2020), this article is for you. Dive into a curated list of 10 movies and shows that share the same gritty, authentic vibe, celebrating unique personalities and underground culture. Whether you're a fan of documentaries or character-driven narratives, these picks will keep you hooked.

The Last Waltz (1978)
Description: A legendary concert film that chronicles the final performance of The Band, blending music, storytelling, and cultural history. It celebrates the spirit of collaboration and the fleeting nature of artistic moments.
Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film features performances by iconic musicians like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell.


Beautiful Losers (2008)
Description: A vibrant look at a collective of DIY artists who emerged from the underground scenes of skateboarding, punk, and graffiti. The film celebrates unconventional creativity and the power of community in shaping artistic identity.
Fact: Many of the artists featured in the film went on to achieve mainstream success while staying true to their roots.


The Cool School (2008)
Description: This documentary highlights the rise of the Los Angeles art scene in the 1950s and 1960s, focusing on a group of artists who challenged the status quo. It mirrors the themes of artistic innovation and the tension between commercial success and creative freedom.
Fact: The film includes interviews with key figures like Ed Ruscha and Dennis Hopper, who were central to the movement.


The Punk Singer (2013)
Description: This documentary follows the life of Kathleen Hanna, a pioneering figure in the punk and feminist movements. It explores her relentless drive to create art that challenges societal norms and empowers marginalized voices.
Fact: The film reveals Hanna's battle with Lyme disease, which forced her to step away from the spotlight for years.


Ai Weiwei: Never Sorry (2012)
Description: A gripping portrait of an artist-activist who uses his work to challenge political and social injustices. The film highlights the courage and defiance required to maintain artistic integrity under oppressive conditions.
Fact: Ai Weiwei's outspoken criticism of the Chinese government led to his arrest during the filming of this documentary.


Marina Abramović: The Artist Is Present (2012)
Description: This documentary captures the intense and transformative performance art of Marina Abramović, exploring themes of endurance, vulnerability, and the connection between artist and audience.
Fact: The film documents her landmark 2010 MoMA retrospective, where she sat silently across from visitors for 736 hours.


Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child (2010)
Description: This documentary explores the life and work of a groundbreaking artist, capturing the raw energy and creativity of the New York art scene. It delves into themes of individuality, artistic rebellion, and the struggles of maintaining authenticity in a commercial world.
Fact: The film includes rare archival footage of Basquiat and interviews with his contemporaries, offering an intimate look at his meteoric rise and tragic end.


The Wolfpack (2015)
Description: A fascinating look at a group of siblings who grew up isolated in a New York apartment, using movies as their window to the world. The film examines the power of imagination and the ways art can shape identity.
Fact: The brothers recreated their favorite films scene-by-scene using homemade props and costumes.


Framing John DeLorean (2019)
Description: A hybrid documentary that blends archival footage with dramatic reenactments to tell the story of an enigmatic inventor and entrepreneur. It delves into themes of ambition, downfall, and the blurred line between genius and hubris.
Fact: The film features Alec Baldwin in a rare dramatic role as John DeLorean.


The Sparks Brothers (2021)
Description: A celebratory documentary about the cult band Sparks, highlighting their decades-long career of musical innovation and eccentricity. The film captures the joy of staying true to one's artistic vision despite commercial pressures.
Fact: Sparks has released over 25 albums and influenced countless musicians, yet they remain underrated in mainstream music.
