Gary Gray Spins a Gem with Latest Movie

Straight Outta Compton

Straight Outta Compton dominates the box office as it climbs the charts!

Straight Outta Compton dominates the box office as it climbs the charts!

By Gabe O'Brien, Reporter

Over the weekend, my friend and I saw the popular film now out in theaters, Straight Outta’ Compton. I had an idea of what this movie was about since I have listened to the group, N.W.A. Because of this, I was looking forward to watching it. I told my friend, Ronan, about it so this past Saturday night, he and I went to the AMC Van Ness. I bought the movie snacks, and settled in. I was going to be there for a while since the movie does run for 2 hours and 30 minutes.

It was a fun movie. It was really crowded, though.

— Phoenix Aquino-Thomas

          The movie begins with an introduction to the beginnings and the lifestyles of such stars as Eazy-E, Dr. Dre, and Ice Cube before they became famous. After a surprising turn to rap from E and a breakthrough hit, the group is eventually picked up by a music manager who coaches them through their success, as well as their burgeoning controversy. After miscommunications, the five rappers break away towards solo strides and individual recognition. They eventually reunite when Eazy-E falls victim to HIV/AIDS.

         In my opinion, this movie informs the viewers about the harsh reality that these five men faced in their hometown in South Central Los Angeles. The film highlighted the major issues of the generation in which they shined, including the Rodney King Riots of 1992. It showed their humble start, yet also showed their brutal falls from the friendship and honor they once had. The men became more selfish with their newfound riches. While, this could be understandable due to the fact that they had been raised with a meager amount compared to their wealth now.  Even so, they didn’t seem to grow as mature people as they retained stubbornness and violent tendencies. For example, a fight simply breaks out in a public space because Ice Cube’s crew happened to see their rivals. Also, the over dramatization of “The World’s Most Dangerous Group” didn’t seem all too authentic. Besides this, I liked the film. It took the viewer in and kept them wanting more.