Mur Murs is a documentary film directed by Agnès Varda that explores the street art scene in Los Angeles during the early 1980s. Varda, who had previously made films about the mural art of Cuba and France, was fascinated by the large-scale murals that decorated the city's walls and wanted to capture them on film.
The film features interviews with several prominent muralists, including Judith Baca, who created the Great Wall of Los Angeles, and Kent Twitchell, known for his realistic portraits of famous figures. Varda also speaks with community activists and residents who have been affected by the murals, often in positive ways.
Through a series of vignettes, Varda showcases the various styles and themes of the murals, which range from political and social commentary to whimsical and celebratory imagery. She also captures the process of creating a mural, from the initial concept and design to the final painting and dedication ceremony.
In addition to the murals themselves, the film also delves into the cultural and historical context of the art form, including the influence of Mexican muralists and the WPA mural program of the 1930s.
Mur Murs is a vibrant and engaging portrait of the street art scene in Los Angeles during a particular moment in time, and a testament to the power of public art to inspire and engage communities.