Where to stream

Downtown '81

6.720011h 12mMovieDramaComedyMusic

The film is a day in the life of a young artist, Jean-Michel Basquiat, who needs to raise money to reclaim the apartment from which he has been evicted. He wanders the downtown streets carrying a painting he hopes to sell, encountering friends, whose lives (and performances) we peek into.

DirectorEdo Bertoglio

WriterGlenn O'Brien

ProducerMaripol

Where to watch

Kino Film Collection Kanopy

Kanopy

Hoopla

Availability shown for United States · rights vary by country

Cast · Directed by Edo Bertoglio

Jean-Michel Basquiat

Jean (archive footage)

Saul Williams

Jean's Narration (voice)

Peppermint Lounge Dancer

Self - Vocals, Tuxedomoon

Eszter Balint

Self

Kid Creole

Self - Vocals and Guitar, Kid Creole & The Coconuts

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Downtown '81 — streaming FAQ

Which OTT platform streams Downtown '81?

Downtown '81 is streaming on Kino Film Collection, Kanopy and Hoopla in United States, and available to rent or buy on Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. It's not currently on Netflix.

Is Downtown '81 on Netflix?

No, Downtown '81 is not on Netflix in United States as of August 2026. It's currently on Kino Film Collection and Kanopy.

Is Downtown '81 on Amazon Prime Video?

Downtown '81 isn't included with a Prime Video subscription in United States, but you can rent or buy it on Amazon Video.

Where can I watch Downtown '81 for free?

Downtown '81 is available to stream free (with ads) on Kanopy and Hoopla in United States.