Martin Scorsese to Direct Biopic About New York Dolls Frontman David Johansen

Oscar-winner Martin Scorsese has been drafted to direct a new documentary about the frontman of the New York Dolls, glam-punk pioneer David Johansen.

Scorsese is working with Showtime Documentary Films to create and distribute the film. Additionally, Scorsese will co-direct the film with Emmy nominee David Tedeschi. 

In a statement, Scorsese remarked, “I’ve known David Johansen for decades, and his music has been a touchstone ever since I listened to the Dolls when I was making Mean Streets. Then and now, David’s music captures the energy and excitement of New York City. I often see him perform, and over the years I’ve gotten to know the depth of his musical inspirations. After seeing his show last year at the Café Carlyle, I knew I had to film it because it was so extraordinary to see the evolution of his life and his musical talent in such an intimate setting. For me, the show captured the true emotional potential of a live musical experience.”

Scorsese and Tedeschi are using the doc to follow Johansen’s rise of fame while also including insights about his early life. 

Showtime EVP of Nonfiction Programming, Vinnie Malhotra said, “It is an honor for all of us at Showtime to be working with Martin Scorsese, who unquestionably stands as one of the greatest filmmakers of our time.”