Downtown '81
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.
Top cast
Jean-Michel BasquiatJean (archive footage)
Saul WilliamsJean's Narration (voice)- Anna ShroederBeatrice
Debbie HarryFairy Godmother- Giorgio GiomelskyLandlord
Coati MundiSelf
Debi MazarPeppermint Lounge Dancer- George QuinonesGraffiti Artist
- Walter StedingSelf
Steven BrownSelf - Vocals, Tuxedomoon
Eszter BalintSelf
Kid CreoleSelf - Vocals and Guitar, Kid Creole & The Coconuts
Below are the streaming services currently carrying the movie “Downtown '81” in the United Kingdom, along with how each offers it (subscription, buy, or rent) and a direct link. Licensing differs by market, so availability in the United Kingdom can differ from other countries.
Where to watch Downtown '81 in United Kingdom
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Not currently available on the supported providers in United Kingdom.
Availability can change as licenses rotate — confirm on the provider’s page before subscribing. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026.