Roger Gastman “Rolling Like Thunder” with Freight Writing Culture in New Film

As you would know if you waited in the dark out in the open night for a freight train to paint, the earth vibrates and the rumbling can raise adrenaline levels with fear and excitement, and anticipation.

Time and again we hear the stories of isolation and community intertwined with “fright writing”, where a graffiti writer takes the “life and limb” thing a little too lightly, risking both to get up on a cross-country platform.

Merlot. Behind the scenes photo from the film “Rolling Like Thunder” by Roger Gastman. (photo © Aerub)

Next month graffiti historian, author, businessman, curator, disruptor, and film director Roger Gastman brings the freights Rolling Like Thunder to Showtime network with a new documentary that he promises will dive intothe secret underground world and history of freight train and graffiti culture, uncovering stories of myth-like artists, remarkable romances, competitive graffiti crews, and battles with the institution.”

It’s part of the network’s announced multi-year Hip Hop 50 initiative in collaboration with Mass Appeal, and will air on December 17th.

Roger sent us a few images from the film and behind-the-scenes shots to whet your aerosol appetite.

Maple. Behind the scenes photo from the film “Rolling Like Thunder” by Roger Gastman. (photo © Tim Conlon)
Maple. Behind the scenes photo from the film “Rolling Like Thunder” by Roger Gastman. (photo © Maple)
ASIC & ETC. Behind the scenes photo from the film “Rolling Like Thunder” by Roger Gastman. (photo © Tim Conlon)
NECS. Behind the scenes photo from the film “Rolling Like Thunder” by Roger Gastman. (photo © Tim Conlon)
ICH. Behind the scenes photo from the film “Rolling Like Thunder” by Roger Gastman. (photo © Tim Conlon)
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