Sad + Moving


Being of a "certain age" and growing up listening (and worshipping) the Dolls, I was surprised at how terribly sad this movie left me. Seeing aging rockers does that to me in general but something about David's face with his more youthful body and hair made me want to cry more than Arthur's story. In a way, I'm glad that Johnny wasn't there to join them. Anyone else feel that way ?

reply

We share the same sentiments. I didn't expect to be surprised by Arthur's death, but I was totally taken off-guard. I remember hearing on the news of Arthur Kane's death, but didn't equate it to "Killer" Kane until I watched this film. Felt VERY naive for a moment there . . .

David has NOT aged well. He did not look well to me . . . had the body of a very aged man . . . diminishing muscle and all skin in his arms, and I don't even want to talk about his facial features (Whew!).

In addition, Arthur's ex-wife, and several of the groupies/ other band members were looking . . . VERY used-up. That saddened me too. And to be truthful, I had to make a decision 25+ years ago to continue my interests in drumming/ music/ bands or go do church service. I don't regret making the decision to take my life in a direction away from the music world . . . though I AM stuck in the 80's musically! LOL (Good thing my kids enjoy it now . . . even if my wife is a ska and emo, current punk, groupie)!! I still enjoy PIL, Sex Pistols, and NY Dolls, but . . . GC5, Onesidezero, Lagwagon, Mi6, and Propaghandi??? Give me the originals over these remake, rebakes, . . and for heaven's sake, can we move OUT of the 70's grunge dress once and for-all??!?!? Time to take a stinkin' shower, and change the clothes! (I MUST be getting old!!!) LOL

Dave

reply


Yes, it left me sad also. I had to write something of the Dolls when it finished.


Dee Dee Ramone

yay he's great

reply

I felt terrible for Arthur. 30 years of unhappiness, then your life finally comes together and you die.

I worshipped the Dolls also. I was only 12 when I bought the Dolls first album, I paid a quarter or fifty cents at a flea market (a promo copy no less), and it was love from the first strains of Personality Crisis. I followed Johnny till his death (even went to the wake and funeral), and was saddened to hear about Jerry and Arthur.

I understand what you mean about Johnny not being there, but if he were alive today, he'd still be the best damn rocker on the club scene, and the hype behind the Dolls reunion would have been 1000 times stronger. I'd also have gotten my butt on a plane for that reunion.

I'd heard mixed reviews about "New York Doll", but being a fan from so early in their career, I thought it was the best rock documentary I've seen in years.

It's a shame (but kind of sweet) the director didn't realize all the tremendous stars he interviewed.

reply

I was blown away by this movie and that doesn't happen often!

reply

Amen! An unbelievable documentary. Surpassed any expections I had.

reply

Yes it's sad that Arthur passed away but I took away a different message from the film. I found it very uplifting that he had not only the courage but the opportunity to address a troubled relationship with David and heal that. I also found the end of the film where David sings the hymn "A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief " in tribute to Arthur to be incredibly moving and appropriate.

How many people reading this would love to have the chance to heal a friendship before it's too late?

I wonder if the film motivated anyone to try and do just that?

reply

I just can't believe no one spoiled the ending for me. It made it so much better not knowing.

reply

This certainly is a very moving documentary, have to admit I got very emotional at several points. All the time I felt like shaking Arthur's hand and just telling him he's a good man. I'm glad he got to reconcile with David and play with the Dolls one more time before his passing. I'd recommend this to anyone, no matter what kind of music they like.

reply