Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Radiant Child

Tamra Davis's documentary does serve as a worthy companion to Julian Schnabel's 1996 biopic.

A touching portrait that may not be the last word on the painter, but has facts and context to burn.

The intimate, home video footage -- which has never been shown -- feels poignant, a throwback to Basquiat's early days on the New York scene when he got by on his good looks, an elusive inner confidence, and the generosity of others.

Using Basquiat's words and his art, labeled bebop-influenced neo-expressionism or sometimes gutter punk, Davis means to resurrect the relevance of a black artist pioneer...