New York Doll

"But when I saw a man without eloquence, or talents for public speaking, who could only say, "I know, by the power of the Holy Ghost, that the Book of Mormon is true, that Joseph Smith is a Prophet of the Lord," the Holy Ghost proceeding from that individual illuminated my understanding, and light, glory, and immortality were before me." --Brigham Young (Journal of Discourses, Volume 1:90, 1852; OR HERE)

I like to hear testimonies at church. This movie reminds me of a testimony. I imagine that Greg Whiteley (the director) started making a film about Arthur Kane and it turned into a testimony of the principles of the gospel. At least that is how I felt. Being a Mormon and knowing the culture and teachings, I caught all of the gospel lessons that the movie teaches. I never felt like I was being taught or preached to. I don't know but I imagine that those who are not of this faith didn't feel like that either.

From home teaching, giving new members callings, and prayers being answered, to forgiveness, the atonement, and standing up for what you believe in. This movie has packed into it more spirituality than any Mormon made film out there (including Richard Dutcher's "God's Army" or "The Other Side of Heaven") Yet it doesn't seem to be made for that.

Quickly you love Arthur "Killer" Kane. You see him going about his daily activities and you feel like this is a person you can identify with but know that his unique situation as a washed up rocker is interesting and at times - sad.

Musician after musician testify of the Doll's goodness and how they were loved so much. The movie briefly describes a history of rock that is very affected by the New York Dolls. Many of us listen to or at least have heard of scores of groups that either copy cat the Doll's style or their music. Music lovers get a real treat while watching the movie.

You will never regret seeing this movie and so I have recommended it to everyone I know. I watched it in the theater about 5 or 6 times and bought the DVD when it came out. It has reached my top 5 movies list which is pretty good considering that I have seen hundreds of movies.