FILM REVIEW: Straight Outta Compton (15)

Released : 28th August 2015
Rated : 15
Running Time: 147 mins
BBFCinsight: Strong language, sex, violence, drug use
Director: F Gary Gray
Stars: O’Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Neil Brown Jr., Aldis Hodge, Marlon Yates Jr.

Straight Outta Compton tells the no-holes-barred true story of legendary rap group N.W.A who were once considered the world’s most dangerous group.

In 1987 five young men, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre, Eazy-E, MC Ren and DJ Yella, started a hip-hop group that changed musical history and through their music they reflected the frustrations and anger about being young and black in 1980’s America.

Produced by Ice Cube and Dr. Dre, Straight Outta Compton is an account chronicling the band’s history, from its inception, to growing success and stardom and finally its fiery end.

The film features a vast soundtrack of old skool hip-hop tunes, including N.W.A. hits Express Yourself and F*** Tha Police.

REVIEW: While this film may not be to everyones liking it is an excellent account of the struggle faced by youths in America in the 1980’s and how the group N.W.A. went on to fight back against oppression from the authorities.

The acting and direction is excellent, you can really feel what the members of the group are experiencing as they channel their anger and frustration through their music.

For anyone wishing to learn about hip-hop music and what drives the music this film would be an excellent place to start. I can highly recommend this film.