In tribute to the New York Dolls's lead singer David Johansen, who died on February 28, 2025, Orpheum Theater of Upstate Films in Saugerties will be screening the little-seen documentary All Dolled Up: A New York Dolls Story. Directed by Bob Gruen, this feature-length film follows the Dolls during their early performances in New York City at Kenny's Castaways and Max's Kansas City, and continues on for their tour of the West Coast which includes footage from Whiskey A Go Go, "The Real Don Steele Show," and Rodney Bingenheimer's English Disco. Gruen is a filmmaker, author, and is regarded as one of the most foremost rock 'n' roll photographers, documenting some of the biggest artists in history such as John Lennon, Tina Turner, the Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Elton John, and Kiss. Gruen served as John Lennon's personal photographer during his time in New York City in 1971. Since 1980, Morrison Hotel Gallery has been the primary representative for Gruen's photography. His work is included in the collections of the National Portrait Gallery in London and the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle. All Dolled Up: A New York Dolls Story highlights the New York Dolls' influence on later bands like the Ramones, Sex Pistols, and Guns N' Roses, cementing their place in rock history. Gruen undercuts the archival footage with personal interviews with the remaining band members at the time. As part of Upstate Film's "Close Up" series, Gruen will be in attendance for the screening and will host a Q&A afterwards.
