Written by Jesus Figueroa
From the streets of Compton to the big screen, the story of the N.W.A as told in "Straight Outta Compton" inspires thought in a new generation that gets to listen to the group.
A well-told story brings up issues that have been around for decades and are prominent in the news to-date.
Easy-E, played by Jason Mitchell, teams up with Dr. Dre, played by Corey Hawkins, Ice Cube, played by his son O'Shea Jackson jr., MC Ren, played by Aldis Hodge, and DJ Yella, played by Neil Brown Jr. to form one of the most controversial groups in American the N.W.A.
Jackson Jr. is outstanding playing his father. The resemblance is incredible and the mannerisms are great as he becomes one of the main focuses of the film.
Hawkins is inspiring as Dre. The dignity and calm he brings to his character is, as his character says over and over in the film, dope.
Mitchell gives a warmth, charisma and charm to Easy-E. The momentum of his role never becomes stagnant as the comedy, joy and sadness of his character is always well played.
Hodges and Brown are more background characters, but still the audience's gets an opportunity to connect with their characters.
The story takes audiences from troubled times in Compton to the issues the group and individual members faced throughout their careers in the group and as solo artists.
The political issues surrounding the lyrics of the album "Straight Outta Compton" are told and shown through actions, both through the making and the tour after the release of the album.
The trouble with the Los Angeles police and the authority of other officials.
The troubles don't stop at the authority, but go deeper into the issues which arose between members, through the music and due to influences outside the group.
The film as a whole is fantastic and the pace of the film continues steadily throughout the more than two-hour long film.
I give this film 5 out of 5 Popcorns. The film is inspirational and, although telling a historic story, audiences can relate to the story due to the similarity to the news stories now. The story doesn't overwhelm with overly serious plot, comedic relief is always there to ease tense moments and alleviate the situation. The acting is great and really helps put the audience into the time period.
"Straight Outta Compton" is out in theaters Aug. 14.
