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Tattoo Nation

Released Apr 4, 2013 1h 26m Documentary List
Tomatometer 2 Reviews 61% Popcornmeter 250+ Ratings
Tattoo artists Charlie Cartwright, Jack Rudy and Freddy Negrete revolutionize the world of body ink, producing tattoos with incredible detail and realism.
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Tattoo Nation

Critics Reviews

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Gary Goldstein Los Angeles Times A vivid portrait that should satisfy aficionados and intrigue the curious. Ink-averse viewers, however, may remain unsold. Rated: 3/5 Apr 4, 2013 Full Review Ernest Hardy Village Voice The images of the style as it evolves, and especially those that fill the last 15 minutes of Tattoo, are so beautiful and often majestic that they overshadow the film's small shortcomings. Apr 3, 2013 Full Review Read all reviews

Audience Reviews

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Audience Member Really enjoyed the documentary "Tattoo Nation" because it chronicles the art form through the ages and it's journey from secretive/seedy subculture to socially acceptable. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 01/25/23 Full Review Audience Member As a tattoo artist I truly appreciate this film. This documentary sheds light on the culture of West Coast style Tattooing in America. It Faithfully represents Good Time Charlie's cast of characters and their own backgrounds. If you're a tattoo artist or interested in the world of body modification and tattoo in this film really is a must-see. Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/15/23 Full Review Audience Member Brilliant film on the tattoo boom in America, Tattoo Nation chronicles the rise in popularity of the tattoo art form. Before tattoos were accepted became socially acceptable in popular culture, they were seen as marks of criminals and low lives. Back in the 60's, Tattooing was illegal in most states, and was done in secret, and artists would not divulge their techniques. Most of the techniques were learned in prison between Chicano inmates. Other artists learned other methods and brought something new to the medium. This is an excellent, and in depth documentary about the tattoo revolution that is a must watch for fans of tats. Some of the finest artists in the business, including Ed Hardy, Freddy Negrette, Cory Miller, Tim Hendricks and Charlie Cartwright. This is a highly engaging picture that should be seen because tattooing is actually a beautiful art form, and when done correctly, can be a beautiful masterpiece, just because it's on your body doesn't make it look sketchy or you look trashy. This documentary also tells as to why certain tattoo pieces are chosen by its wearers, and it's always interesting to hear the stories behind the art. Tattoo Nation gives the art form long due credibility as it shouldn't be something to be frowned upon. I strongly believe that Tattoo artists deserve more credit for what they're doing, and what we have in this documentary is the development of the art, and how tattoos have some form of individuality. I love tattoos, I have two of them myself and this documentary just makes me respect the level of talent that the artists have put into their work. Every part of the tattoo revolution is covered and I think that it is a fine film that tells an important story. Rated 4 out of 5 stars 02/07/23 Full Review Audience Member If you truly are into the Tattoo Culture, then you have to see this! Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/19/23 Full Review Audience Member If you are a fan of tattoos, you will love this documentary! It focuses on the history and tattoos and features some pretty big names like Danny Trejo and Ed Hardy. The ink featured throughout is BEAUTIFUL and I loved learning about the black and white days. After watching it I automatically wanted to go out and get some new ink. I definitely recommend this for ink lovers! Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/13/23 Full Review Audience Member I was blown away by the talent that I saw in this movie. Not only did I learn a lot about the history of black&grey style tattooing but I got witness amazing body art that the average person wouldn't get to see. I know there are a lot of tattoo shows on television but this documentary takes it to another level and puts a spotlight on some of the best tattoo artists in the world. I would love to have Freddy Negrete or Mister Cartoon tattoo on me. To wear their art for the rest of my life would be an honor! Rated 5 out of 5 stars 01/18/23 Full Review Read all reviews
Tattoo Nation

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Cast & Crew

Movie Info

Synopsis Tattoo artists Charlie Cartwright, Jack Rudy and Freddy Negrete revolutionize the world of body ink, producing tattoos with incredible detail and realism.
Director
Eric Schwartz
Producer
John Corry
Screenwriter
John Corry, Marc Jakubowicz
Distributor
D&E Entertainment
Production Co
Visions Verite
Genre
Documentary
Original Language
English
Release Date (Theaters)
Apr 4, 2013, Limited
Release Date (Streaming)
Oct 23, 2016
Runtime
1h 26m
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