Sunday, January 10, 2016

Straight Outta Compton (2015)

Director: F. Gary Gray. Cast: O'Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Paul Giamatti. 147 min. Rated R. Biography/Musical.

The real-life story of Easy-E, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and their NWA, and how the group brought rap music into the mainstream in the 80s and 90s. Considering my severe unfamiliarity with the music, the fact that the film engaged me for its full two-and-half hour length, should be considered a miracle - which is actually what music biopics should do, and not just preach to the choir. Using Ice Cube's real life son to play his part was a brilliant ploy to help you believe the story. Watch this not for the music, but to understand the history.

PS: Paul Giamatti skillfully plays almost the same role in the year's two decent music biopics: this, and Love & Mercy.

Mo says:



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