A very good film with INCREDIBLE acting

Rating: 9/10 (8 November 2002)

Many people refused to accept the fact that Eminem could possibly act. That refusal now looks silly and ridiculous after seeing 8 Mile. While the movie is a typical Rocky-esque little guy trying to go big inspirational film, it is done with style and is very entertaining. The two big things about this film are the actors and the director. Eminem (Slim Shady(Marshall Mathers III)) is absolutly astonishing in this film. You want him to suceed. You feel the pain of his failure. You applaud his victories, and you love him, a thing many would not think possible of the white rapper. As well, Kim Basinger's role as Rabbit's (Eminem's character's name) mother is amazing. She has such poise and such ability. Although she has a smaller role, it is felt during the film, and she keeps an amazing presence on screen. Curtis Hanson deserves props all over the place. This movie would not have been as well done or successful if it wasn't for him. The confidence in the film-making, the definitive style, the absolute honesty of the film is brought out by him. Bravo, Curtis. Bravo.
****1/2/*****