MOVIE REVIEW
Minted
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2023, 2024
Runtime: 1h 20m
Director(s): Nicholas Bruckman
Where To Watch: debuts on PBS’s INDEPENDENT LENS on January 6, 2025, at 10 p.m. (check local listings). The film will be available to stream on the PBS app

RAVING REVIEW: The art world is constantly evolving, and a new chapter began (or was reinvented) with the advent of NFTs. MINTED chronicles these changes, showcasing the surging and subsequent decline (and possible resurgence?) of the NFT phenomenon. Directed by Nicholas Bruckman, this documentary takes us through the digital art revolution, highlighting the new avenues it opens for artists and its challenges.

From the outset, MINTED captures the audience's imagination with an auction scene where a digital artwork commands an astronomical price. This moment isn't just about the money; it marks a turning point in the art market, offering a window into the experiences of artists pioneering this digital landscape. The film provides us with front-row seats to candid interviews and rare behind-the-scenes glimpses, drawing us deeper into the artists' ventures into new creative realms.

This documentary's strength lies in its deep examination of the NFT frenzy. It celebrates the artists who have successfully jumped into this new world and delves into the darker sides of the NFT market. MINTED engages viewers in critical reflections on blockchain technology's ethical and environmental impacts on art, illuminating the broader implications of these digital transactions.

MINTED also explores the personal tales of artists from varied backgrounds—the U.S., Cuba, or Africa—revealing how NFTs have opened doors and posed challenges. The film probes the motivations that drive artists toward this technology, the hurdles they encounter, and the transformative effect on their work.

MINTED ignites a critical dialogue about art's role in the digital era. It questions art's intrinsic value and technology's impact on creative expression, encouraging a thoughtful discussion on whether tech innovations disrupt or enhance the traditional art scene.

Bruckman's direction, combined with the contributions of producers Rahilla Zafar and Shawn Hazelett, vividly brings the digital art world to life. The cinematography and editing effectively stitch together a narrative that captures the essence of the NFT craze.

With its premiere on PBS’s INDEPENDENT LENS and subsequent availability on the PBS app, MINTED ensures that a broad audience can explore its in-depth analysis and rich storytelling at their convenience. MINTED provides a stimulating and comprehensive look at the impact of NFTs on the art world. Combining individual stories with analytical critique, the documentary offers a nuanced perspective on the benefits and drawbacks of the digital revolution. While it shows some imperfections, MINTED is a crucial tool for anyone keen to understand the complexities of NFTs and their significant influence on modern artistic practices.

As we move further into a digital-centric world, MINTED is a critical documentary that documents essential changes and fosters vital discussions on the future of creative practices. It records a pivotal moment in art history and promotes ongoing conversations about the potential and challenges of digital artistry. The question remains: once you’ve watched the film, will you have a better grasp on crypto, NFTs, blockchain, and the like?

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[photo courtesy of CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING (CPB), ITVS INTERNATIONAL, PUBLIC BROADCASTING SERVICE (PBS)]

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