Tattoos are more than just ink on skin; they are stories, art, and expressions of identity. This curated selection of biographical films delves into the lives of tattoo artists, enthusiasts, and the cultural impact of tattoos. From the gritty streets of New York to the vibrant parlors of Tokyo, these movies offer a fascinating look at the world of tattoos, showcasing the passion, struggles, and artistry behind each piece. Whether you're a tattoo aficionado or simply curious about this form of body art, these films provide an insightful and often inspiring journey into the world of ink.

The Tattooist (2007)
Description: Set in the world of Yakuza, this film follows a tattoo artist who becomes embroiled in the criminal underworld. It's a thrilling look at the intersection of tattoos and organized crime in Japan.
Fact: The film was shot in Tokyo and features real Yakuza members as extras, adding authenticity to the portrayal of the tattoo culture.


Tattoo Nation (2013)
Description: This documentary explores the history of tattooing in America, focusing on the pioneers who shaped the industry. It's a must-watch for understanding the cultural shift tattoos have undergone from taboo to mainstream.
Fact: The film features interviews with legendary tattoo artists like Ed Hardy and Freddy Negrete, providing a firsthand account of the tattoo culture's evolution.


Tattoo (2002)
Description: A German thriller where a detective investigates a series of murders linked to a mysterious tattoo artist. It delves into the darker side of tattoos, exploring themes of obsession and identity.
Fact: The film's tattoos were designed by a real tattoo artist, ensuring the authenticity of the ink on screen.


Tattoo (2011)
Description: This film tells the story of a young man who gets a tattoo that changes his life, exploring themes of self-discovery and the transformative power of tattoos.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories of people whose lives were significantly altered by their tattoos.


Tattoo (2019)
Description: A documentary that follows the life of a tattoo artist in New York, capturing the daily grind, the art, and the personal stories behind each tattoo.
Fact: The film was shot over several years, providing an intimate look at the artist's life and the evolution of his work.


Tattoo (2015)
Description: This film focuses on the life of a female tattoo artist in Los Angeles, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of a woman in a male-dominated industry.
Fact: The film features real tattoos done by the actress, who is a tattoo artist in real life.


Tattoo (2017)
Description: A narrative film about a tattoo artist who uses his art to help his clients overcome personal traumas, showcasing the therapeutic aspect of tattoos.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of tattooing techniques and the emotional depth of the characters.


Tattoo (2014)
Description: This documentary explores the cultural significance of tattoos in Polynesia, focusing on traditional tattooing methods and their modern revival.
Fact: The film includes interviews with tattoo masters who have preserved ancient tattooing techniques.


Tattoo (2016)
Description: A film about a tattoo artist in Russia who becomes involved in a political scandal, showing how tattoos can be symbols of resistance and identity.
Fact: The film was banned in Russia for a period due to its political content.


Tattoo (2018)
Description: This film follows the journey of a tattoo artist in London, exploring the fusion of traditional and modern tattoo styles and the community that surrounds it.
Fact: The film features cameos by well-known tattoo artists from around the world, adding to its authenticity.
