Introducing Mr. Diana

FROM THE NAKED EYE CINEMA - INTRODUCING MR. DIANA, a video short documenting the arrival of controversial comic book artist and illustrator Michael Diana–the hottest astral flame to scorch New York City's creative underbelly–to New York City. Mike's soft spoken, gentle character is in sharp contrast to the harsh illustrated images of bloody sexuality he creates. His persona combines the raw innocence of Melvile's Billy Budd with the lusty ingenuousness of Voltaire's Candide. The video features the "three faces of Mike": Artist, Political Scapegoat, and Object Of Desire. Explore the territory "Inside Michael Diana", as the film makers survey his surfer-buff physique.

Directed by Peter Cramer, Jack Waters, Introducing Mr. Diana leans on a strong ensemble — Mike Diana, Martha Wilson — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 1996.