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Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Urban Manhood

Some films resonate because they are written with a refreshing take on things in your life, things you aren't sure other people understand. John Singleton writes character and dialogue that remembers clearly the situations and people that echo in the back of your mind. The struggle to grow up, decide who you are and survive in an urban landscape is well placed and emotional in Singleton's characters. As a producer and director he has taken a turn towards the fast, fun and flip style but glimmers of his dialogue turn up even in these exploding action flicks.

"Boyz n the Hood" (1991)- A film that showed up as real life- making audiences see urban life as more than sound bytes on the evening news. Introduced and asked people to stand up to ask, "Who wrote this?" Great film - a little choppy in the directing and editing, but over all extremely well done. 

"Poetic Justice" (1993)- A sweet, well intended attempt at a love story - fall a little bit short in character development - but over all a very good film. Tupac comes out strong as an actor, believable in his passions, Janet Jackson proves again she can carry off a character up against testosterone filled story-lines and dialogue.

"2 Fast 2 Furious" (2003) - As long as you go into this viewing with the expectation of speed, noise and campy fun relationship nonsense you will not be disappointed. A terrific fun action filled car flick.

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