Roadsworth: Crossing the Line is a portrait of an outsider in search of himself, and the city that struggles to embrace him. It offers a glimpse into the rapidly expanding culture of street art, which silently demands that we rethink our public space. This is a film about taking risks, which shows us that sometimes dissent is necessary.

Between 2001 and 2004, Roadsworth biked through Montreal in the wee deserted hours, armed with homemade stencils and a can of spray paint. With a quick look over his shoulder, he began spraying illegal art installations that altered the meaning of his city’s streets: a crosswalk became a giant boot print, vines climbed up a traffic divider, a left turn lane was transformed into a giant zipper. Each piece dared to ask: who owns public space?

The appearance of these anonymous stencil designs put locals in a state of wonderment, but his crusade eventually pushed the city’s limits and Roadsworth was arrested and charged with public mischief.  If guilty, his fines could amount to as much as $250,000, possible jail time, and a criminal record.

The crackdown on Roadsworth catapults him into the public eye and turns him into an overnight sensation. Thrust into the limelight, Roadsworth suddenly has to answer for his crimes, and is forced to ask himself: Why did I do this?  Meanwhile, the city struggles over the line that separates art and vandalism. 

From Montreal, to France, to England, to Amsterdam, this film follows Roadsworth as he tries to make sense of the drastic changes in his life since being arrested.  As his hobby becomes a legitimate career, Roadsworth must find a way to work within the lines, traversing the boundaries of street art and taking root as an artist in his own right.