HUSTLE & FLOW. Yeah, I know. I'm late seeing it. This of all films. You'd think I would have been there opening night! What with the blackness and pimpin' and rappin' that is me. Ya feel me? Say word? Word. So, I bought it. As I tend to do with movies I think I will probably really like. Usually I'm right. Like with this film. Other times I'm wrong. Like with ROLL BOUNCE. You know..the one starring Lil..excuse me....just Bow Wow on roller skates. Yeah. *shudder*. Anyway, HUSTLE & FLOW. Pure, raw and powerful. The story of a small time Memphis pimp trying to break into the rap game. His girls by his side, friends supporting him and the dream in his heart and mind. It's not a pretty picture. Well, the movie picture is pretty. But, the picture it paints is not. Well crafted, written and directed by Craig Brewer. A white dude. Take it easy! John Singleton produced it. He of BOYZ N DA HOOD, HIGHER LEARNING, SHAFT, and most recently FOUR BROTHERS fame. While BOYZ is one of my favorite films around, I really love his over looked flick, BABY BOY. Check it out some time.
The film received big honors at the Sundance Film Festival. Terrence Howard as DJay is finally getting props for his incredible acting with his coup of an Oscar Nomination. I'm rooting for him! Take it home brother! Pimp slap those other bitches in your category! Another favorite actress, who doesn't get much work it seems, is Taraji Henson. She plays the pregnant former trick. She also starred in BABY BOY. She is a favorite of Singleton's and he wisely brought her in for this. Pay attention, Hollywood! Sign this girl up for more lead roles! Also, rockin in the cast was Anthony Anderson. For once, playing the straight man. And by straight, I don't mean "he's not gay." He's known more for his comedic roles,but really came through in this role of the supporting producer. DJ Qualls, the skinny geeky kid in a bunch of teen flicks, is great as the helpful musician who assists DJay in his quest for stardom. Another outstanding performance from Taryn Manning is also present. Maybe she, too, will start getting bigger and better parts. Ludacris played a local rapper turned mogul. Sort of the type you hate who forgets his roots and where he came from. Wasn't that impressed with his performance. Not bad, but not great. Still, the movie's got a lot of great buzz behind it, so here's hoping they all get something out of it. It's well deserved.
If you haven't seen it...get to it. Or I'll give you the pimp hand. And you don't want that.
Bitches.
This movie was sooooooooooo good! I hope Terence wins the Oscar! He deserves it.
Posted by: holly | February 14, 2006 at 05:29 PM