Andy Warhol (1987)
The first major documentary portrait of Pop Art's most iconic figure, assembled in the immediate aftermath of his death.
Andy Warhol - Movie Information
- Original Title: Andy Warhol
- Release Year: 1987
- Directed by: Kim Evans, Lana Jokel
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Documentary
- Runtime: 1h 16m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): June 9, 1987 (United States)
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Andy Warhol - Plot
The first major profile of the American Pop Art cult leader after his death in 1987 covers the whole of his life and work through interviews, clips from his films, and conversations with his family and superstar friends. Andy Warhol, the son of poor Czech immigrants, grew up in the industrial slums of Pittsburgh while dreaming of Hollywood stars. He went on to become a star himself.
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Andy Warhol - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Kim Evans
- Lana Jokel
Main Cast
- Andy Warhol
- Paul Morrissey
- Viva
- John Giorno
- Brigid Berlin
- Gerard Malanga
- Sylvia Miles
- Billy Name
- Edie Sedgwick
- James Warhola
Andy Warhol - FAQs
What is the Andy Warhol documentary about?
This 1987 documentary traces the full arc of Andy Warhol's life and career, from his humble beginnings as the son of Czech immigrants in Pittsburgh's industrial neighborhoods to his rise as the defining figure of American Pop Art. It weaves together interviews, film clips, and reflections from his inner circle.
Why was this documentary made right after Warhol's death?
Released just months after Warhol died unexpectedly in February 1987, the film was conceived as an urgent tribute and first major retrospective. Directors Kim Evans and Lana Jokel had rare access to his collaborators and family while memories were fresh, making it a uniquely immediate portrait of the artist.
Where can you stream or watch Andy Warhol (1987)?
You can watch Andy Warhol (1987) on Amazon Video, where it's available to rent or buy. It's a relatively rare documentary, so digital rental is currently the most accessible way to see it.
Who appears in the Andy Warhol documentary?
The film features a remarkable constellation of Warhol's world: Factory superstars Viva, Edie Sedgwick (in archive footage), and Brigid Berlin; collaborators Paul Morrissey, Gerard Malanga, and Billy Name; poet John Giorno; actress Sylvia Miles; and Warhol's nephew James Warhola, offering a rare family perspective.
What makes this documentary different from other Warhol films?
Its timing sets it apart. Made immediately after Warhol's death, it captures firsthand accounts from people who were still processing their grief. The combination of his own film clips, candid interviews with Factory insiders, and family testimony gives it an intimacy that later, more polished profiles rarely match.
Who directed the Andy Warhol documentary?
The documentary was co-directed by Kim Evans and Lana Jokel. Their collaboration brought together a British television sensibility with deep access to Warhol's New York circle, resulting in a portrait that balances critical assessment with genuine personal warmth from those who knew him best.
Is Andy Warhol (1987) based on a book or prior work?
The documentary is an original production rather than an adaptation of a specific book. It draws directly from primary sources — interviews, archival footage, and Warhol's own films — making it a foundational document in its own right rather than a screen version of existing written biography.
What are some similar documentaries to watch after this?
If you enjoyed this portrait of a singular creative figure, try Milius (2013), Quincy (2018), or Struggle: The Life and Lost Art of Szukalski (2018). Each dives deep into an artist's obsessive world with the same mix of admiration and honest scrutiny that makes the Warhol documentary so compelling.
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