Exit Through the Gift Shop: Fact or Fiction?

     In the controversial film Exit Through the Gift Shop, the producer of this documentary, Banksy, ultimately constructs a somewhat unbelievable story, which is why some believe to be fake, rather than a real-life documentary. However, even if the film is real or fake, the message still remains the same; art is undefinable, and unpredictable. The film shows how this frenchman is able to become completely famous based on his graffiti work, which the "real street artists" say is a copy, and also quick to catch on. But who is to say this man's commercial and generic artwork is not in fact art? Banksy uses this film to ultimately express that message to his audience, and perhaps question the norms and politics-as-usual of the art community.
     However with all that being said, it is difficult to determine if the movie is actually based on Mr. Brainwash, or just an actor hired by a purposefully underground artist who wishes to remain hidden, yet still reap the benefits of stardom. I personally feel that despite most of the conspiracy theories out there, this movie is genuinely credible. As one watches the documentary, they are able to see the true depth of the character Mr. Brainwash, and as the film shows clips from numerous tapes he recorded of his life, one feels they are not being cheated, but rather witnessing the obsession of a true human-being. If Banksy truly did make this elaborate scheme to craft a documentary about street art only to promote himself in the end, he deserves every penny he's made for creating a genius plan.