It's nice to see a side of rap that few actually see

Rating: 8/10 (22 March 2005)

8 Mile is a retelling of the classic theme of an underdog overcoming the obstacles attempting to hold them back from achieving a specific goal. In this case, Eminem plays Jimmy 'B Rabbit' Smith whose goals are set to make something of himself in the hip-hop world.
The story takes place in Detroit and is focused around the 8 Mile border which separates the industrial part of the city from the suburbs, in effect separating blacks and whites. This is difficult for Eminem's character as his chances for finding success, much less making a name for himself, in the hip-hop scene is greatly effected by him living on the other side of 8 Mile. Though, due to his growing talent, he can't be ignored and once he finds his voice, he can't be stopped. Really, I think the most important aspect of this film is the realization of how important rap is as a creative outlet and how opening yourself without fear in that or any creative medium can defy even the boundaries of prejudice.
As we know, Eminem became infamous for his controversial lyrics, however he also made it by being a good musician and writing his nonetheless controversial lyrics well. This is an important aspect in the film because throughout it, Eminem's character competes in "battle raps" where rappers throw ad-libbed insults at each other for 45 seconds to a house beat. Here is where the obvious Rocky comparison can be made pertaining to the "big fight" in the end where the outcome of the event is crucial. However, the "big fight" in Eminem's case is a final battle rap and it is an inspiring example of the pen being mightier than the sword. Also, while watching these, you can't help but appreciate the literary knowledge that goes into some of these performances. It's nice to see a side of rap that few actually see, which is how much poetry and soul actually get put into many of these songs, aside from guns-girls-gangsta lyrics that we're all used to hearing.
Also in the movie, Eminem's character goes through many hardships within his personal life. His mother, played by Kim Basinger, is a drunk, drug-addicted, woman who's sleeping with an annoying redneck that Eminem's character went to high school with. On top of that, he's dealing with his own relationship troubles and the threats from the rival rap gang the "New World". So, with everything slowly spiraling down in front of his eyes, he becomes self-conscious and afraid. However, through his music he's able to open himself up and clear his mind and thus rejuvenate his inner strength.
Also worthy of mention are the actual film making techniques this movie used. For example, to elevate the feelings of despair and claustrophobia, many scenes are at night or in dark clubs with characters in mainly black clothing. The color blue is also used a lot to elevate those feelings. Also, the camera work is fast-paced, yet sharp, giving off a feeling of anxiety and dangerousness. This accompanies the roles outside of Eminem's because there's a certain mysteriousness surrounding everyone that makes the viewer not want to trust their intentions.
Unfortunately, the fact that the outcome is somewhat predictable because it is, in fact, loosely based around Eminem's real life. However, this can be forgiven because the part that's intriguing is how he gets there. Overall, this movie is bound to, at very least, tickle the literary senses of those who can find it in obscure places and to (hopefully) open the viewer's mind to the beautiful side of a culture that has gained an ugly reputation.