New York Doll (2005)

Documentary Overview
"New York Doll" is a mesmerizing and poignant documentary film directed by Greg Whiteley in 2005. The film centers around Arthur "Killer" Kane, the bassist of the influential 1970s hard rock band, the New York Dolls. The movie acts as an engaging chronicle of Kane's life journey before and after the disintegration of the band, detailing his battle with alcoholism, his conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and a highly expected reunion concert.

Kane's Early Life and Music Career
At the peak of their music profession, the New York Dolls were considered the pioneers of punk rock, and Kane was right at the heart of it all. However, hard partying and internal feuding led to the band's separation in the mid-1970s. Following the break up, Kane spiraled into alcoholism, which he, later, pointed to as the significant reason for his subsequent downfall, including losing the majority of his ownerships and barely avoiding homelessness.

Kane's Conversion and Recovery
The documentary goes on to explore Kane's conversion to Mormonism, describing it as a turning point in his life. After viewing a tv industrial about the Book of Mormon, Kane went to the Church and asked for a free copy. After that, he became an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, even volunteering at the church-run Family History Center Library. The film showcases how Kane's newly found faith gave him the strength to recover from his addiction and uses an impressive juxtaposition of his punk rock way of life and his newly found dedication to the faith.

The Reunion Concert
The climax of the movie focuses around the long-awaited reunion concert of the New York Dolls in London, started by Morrissey, a long time fan and the curator of 2004's Meltdown Festival. After numerous years of leading a subtle lifestyle, Kane is unexpectedly thrust back into the spotlight, coming to grips with English custom-mades, last-minute practice sessions, and the pressure surrounding the comeback performance.

Whilst the reunion permitted former band members to repair old conflicts, it also revamped the Dolls' spirit and enthusiasm. The performance, though filled with sentimental emotions, brought a sense of revival and closure to Kane's musical journey.

Documentary Reception
The documentary has been well-received, praised for its delicate storytelling and giving audiences a candid peek into the life of Arthur "Killer" Kane. What sets "New York Doll" apart from a conventional music documentary is its focus on Kane's redemption and individual transformation, rather than merely focusing on the band's musical journey. It's a fascinating tale about the increase, fall, and supreme recovery of a renowned artist. It's a life-affirming film that presents a touching portrait of the past, faith, and resurrection, using an intimate look at the transformative power of belief and second possibilities.

The Postscript
Remarkably, just twenty-two days after their standing-ovation efficiency at the reunion concert, on July 13, 2004, Arthur "Killer" Kane died due to leukemia, a poignant end to his life story and the narrative arc of the movie. Despite its tragic ending, "New York Doll" wonderfully encapsulates the essence of Kane's journey, highlighting the durability and redeeming potential of the human spirit.

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