urban studies

Last month, the new documentary Blank City opened in New York in a swarm of internet and street buzz praising its take on the No Wave style of cinema. But because not everyone can catch the film on its traveling cross-country tour, we've picked some of our favorite movie depictions of the '60s, '70s, and '80s NYC music and film scene- many of which are available at your local video store. Check them out below, and get a jump start on the coolest history lesson you'll ever take.

Night Lunch: a 1975 classic from No Wave greats Amos Poe and Ivan Kral, this movie features everyone from David Bowie, Elton John, and George Harrison at the intersection of art, music, and culture.

Kill Your Idols: made in 2004, this awesome 30-year flashblack film is a gritty look at classic Sonic Youth-style rock n' roll.

Blank City: the most recent addition to the bunch, the indie film intersperses present-day interviews from Debbie Harry and Thurston Moore to take a trip back to the punk '70s scene.

The Blank Generation: billed as the original 1970s DIY punk music film, the movie includes performances from Patti Smith, Talking Heads, Blondie, and more.

Wild Combination: Allen Ginsberg, Philip Glass and Steven Hall contribute to this documentary on musician Arthur Russell.

Did we miss any? Let us know in the comments!

Night Lunch, 1975

Kill Your Idols, 2004

Blank City, 2011

The Blank Generation, 1976

Wild Combination, 2008