The Viking of Sixth Avenue 2015
"An unexpected and outrageous adventure"
Directed by Holly Elson, *The Viking of Sixth Avenue (2015)* dives deep into the extraordinary life of Louis "Moondog" Hardin, a blind composer whose avant-garde spirit reshaped New York City's musical landscape.
Director: Holly Elson
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Viking of Sixth Avenue (2015)* about?
This documentary follows the unconventional life of Louis "Moondog" Hardin, a blind musician and composer who embraced New York City's streets as his creative home. Through his own words and those of his collaborators, the film uncovers how Hardin's avant-garde compositions left an indelible mark on music history.
Who directed *The Viking of Sixth Avenue*?
Holly Elson directed this captivating documentary, weaving archival footage and interviews into a visually and sonically rich tribute to Moondog's legacy.
Who stars in *The Viking of Sixth Avenue*?
The film features interviews with Jarvis Cocker, John Zorn, Debbie Harry, Damon Albarn, and Philip Glass, among others, who share their insights on Hardin's impact.
Is *The Viking of Sixth Avenue (2015)* worth watching?
For fans of authentic, offbeat stories and avant-garde music, this documentary is a hidden gem. While it doesn't carry an IMDb rating, its focus on a misunderstood genius and New York's cultural past makes it a compelling watch for music and film enthusiasts alike.
How long is *The Viking of Sixth Avenue*?
The runtime of *The Viking of Sixth Avenue* is 90 minutes.
About The Viking of Sixth Avenue (2015) — A Documentary Portrait of Moondog's Radical Legacy
Directed by Holly Elson, *The Viking of Sixth Avenue (2015)* dives deep into the extraordinary life of Louis "Moondog" Hardin, a blind composer whose avant-garde spirit reshaped New York City's musical landscape. This documentary shines a spotlight on Hardin's unconventional journey, blending archival footage, rare audio recordings, and intimate interviews to paint a vivid portrait of a man who chose the streets of Manhattan as his stage. Through perspectives of his collaborators—including John Zorn, Philip Glass, and Debbie Harry—viewers witness the enduring legacy of an artist who defied convention, crafting hypnotic soundscapes from the hum of urban life.
The film captures the grit and glamour of 20th-century New York, where Moondog's haunting compositions earned him a cult following despite his self-imposed exile from mainstream fame. Elson's lens transforms Hardin's story into a poetic ode to eccentricity, resilience, and the power of music to transcend boundaries. With a runtime of 90 minutes, *The Viking of Sixth Avenue* is a mesmerizing exploration of creativity, identity, and the unexpected places greatness can take root.