A Definite Must For Eminem Fans.

Rating: Null/10 (22 January 2015)

The semi-autobiographical account of the greatest hip-hop artist of all time, alive or dead, is actually a pretty enjoyable & nicely put together piece of work that also marks Eminem's acting debut at which he does a surprisingly good job, and despite featuring a familiar path & many unrefined aspects, is filled with brief moments that are absolutely thrilling.
Set in Detroit, the story of 8 Mile concerns a young white rapper named Jimmy "B-Rabbit" Smith Jr. who's struggling with every aspect of his life & invites a lot of flak after choking at the local rap contest. The film covers his journey as he attempts to make the most of what could be his final chance to launch a rap career in a genre usually dominated by African Americans.
Directed by Curtis Hanson & written by Scott Silver, the story is pretty generic considering it's the same underdog tale we've seen many times before but that doesn't mean it isn't enjoyable for the rap contests here are a treat to watch. There's nothing special about any of its technical aspects although Eminem does provide us with one of the greatest & most inspiring songs ever written.
Coming to the performances, the cast comprises of Eminem, Mekhi Phifer, Brittany Murphy, Kim Basinger, Michael Shannon, Anthony Mackie & others. Eminem is actually quite convincing in his given role & is at his best during the film's final act. Murphy also manages to shine here, Phifer plays his role very well & so does Mackie, while Basinger & Shannon do a fine job in their supporting role.
On an overall scale, 8 Mile is at its most entertaining during the rap battles but barely manages to hang along without those moments. The final act is what finishes the film on a high as seeing B-Rabbit completely decimate each n every one of his opponents is highly reminiscent of what Slim Shady did in real life & then to follow it up with Lose Yourself is an icing on the cake that shows why he's still The Undisputed King of Hip-Hop. A definite must for his fans.