AudioFileZ The New York Dolls. They make the success of The Ramones look massive. Truth is both bands didn't get nearly enough of their deserved airplay or record sales while they existed, The Dolls almost none in comparison. Many years of repeatedly new generations discovering these great bands rights the wrongs somewhat even if the artists pockets are still receiving only a pittance of what this music must be, in truth, generating. But, there's something beyond the old story of the starving hard working artist here. Unlike The Ramones The Dolls were but a blip on the radar as they shortly imploded among-st death, drugs, and an ever changing musical landscape. One of them left the music business entirely.As for history, it's fickle of course. In The Dolls case it had a coda that was positive. Morissey of The Smiths, an influential artist of the 90's, had the vision to get the surviving Dolls together again for at least one reunion show. It proved providentially wonderful as shown here, particularly for Arthur "Killer" Kane bassist for the band. Though he had been out of the business for approximately thirty years he had a wish that he could somehow reunite with his old mates. His story is a compelling one. A man who had found his Spiritual center he was very content living as an employee of The Mormon Church in a very modest way. Still it seems he had a need for a musical resolution, maybe more so with his old chum David Johansen. It really seems like a blessing for Arthur as this film simply tells. If the concert was for the fans it was more for Arthur and then for David and Sylvain in short order. It was a triumphant return to England where their famous TV appearance was called "mock rock" by host Bob Harris on November 26th 1973 and is where drummer Billy Murcia had died just a year earlier.Arthur as the film shows definitely had an inner peace about him. He was a very humble and kind soul it is clear. He may have needed some closure that never was as for his New York Dolls existence; it seems he was truly blessed and received it. In less than six months after the show he was becoming ill and received a serious diagnosis. Perhaps this final chapter was meant to be. It's truly uplifting how his church family supported this momentary return to his other life. They didn't down it or cast a shadow on it, instead fully supporting his wish to reunite his old band when given the chance. I think it made a good man more at peace and fulfilled. Filmmaker Greg Whiteley did a wonderful job of showing the special man and musician Arthur Kane was.

SnoopyStyle Arthur 'Killer' Kane was the bass guitarist for the pioneering The New York Dolls during the 70s. After the band breakup, his career never reached the same heights. Later, he surprised everyone by joining the Mormon church. He works at the church library. He's always broke but his drug and alcohol days are in the past. Then he's given a chance to reunite with his band and he's nervously excited. David Johansen and him have issues in the past. Can they keep it in the past?.This starts with some big names expounding effusive praises on the New York Dolls. It lays down the groundwork for their importance during those times. Then the surprise is Kane as a Mormon. At first, he looks lost like a homeless guy in his thrift store best. The drama isn't that high but Kane is full of humanity. That's what's compelling in this. It's trying to read into the mind of Kane.

jokermtb This is a terrific movie. Somewhat similar to the other great roc-umentary "the story of Anvil", this movie has everything a good story requires - a compelling background, interesting characters, and a "satisfying" ending. I discovered this flick via the New York Dolls page on Facebook, where I downloaded the movie for a couple of Washingtons. I don't usually do so, but for some reason I was really drawn to the story. I've been a Dolls fan since I was a teenager, and discovered the Dolls, not too long after Johnny Thunders died, so I kinda missed the whole thing, but that didn't stop me from discovering, and enjoying this band. Like many, the Dolls were a huge influence on my developing musical tastes, and also why I play guitar. The documentary is very well done, and opens a door in the life of someone who basically got left behind, but thru just sheer cosmic luck, somehow manages to craft a dream come true ending for himself, before fate strikes once again. I honestly believe ANYone will like this movie, even if they never heard of the Dolls. R.I.P. Arthur!

hardy_johnson "New York Doll" is an true-life story of humanity, rock & roll, and redemption. Fueled by a propulsive soundtrack, Greg Whitely uses a light touch in his directorial debut. The result is a moving independent film; spare, authentic, and emotional.This is no "Behind The Music", but a reason to love rock & roll for all it is; both good and bad. Arthur "Killer" Kane achieved quick success in the early 70s with The New York Dolls. Infused with part Ramones, Ziggy Stardust, and Sex Pistols, The Dolls were avante garde rebels in an era when rock & roll fans were looking for a new direction.Commentary by Morrisey, Iggy Pop, and Sir Bob Geldof paint the backdrop. Greg Whitely's genealogical timeline takes us through the tragic fall and slow path towards redemption, culminating with a re-union concert in London.Stay tuned through the credits for a special arrangement of a hymn, arranged and performed by Johansen and Sylvain. The bluesy acoustics, Johansen's raspy lyrical pathos, and plaintive harmonica brought a tear to my eye.