"You know it's hard out here for a pimp"

Rating: 8/10 (28 May 2011)

"Hustle & Flow" bears some resemblance to the 2002 Eminem vehicle "8 Mile", which is a better-known, but not better, movie. Again we have an aspiring rapper, this time one chasing a dream once forgotten in order to make ends meet working as a pimp. He convinces an old friend to help him record a demo but it'll all be for nothing if they can't get their demo in the right hands.
The star of the film is Terrence Howard and he delivered an excellent performance, one that was rewarded with an Oscar nomination. I'd like to say that everyone else was as good but the rest of the cast is of variable quality. The under-appreciated Anthony Anderson contributes the best performance in support while the rest of the cast is at least passable.
Director Craig Brewer put in a workmanlike effort and the film is pretty much free of Hollywood gloss. I liked the retro opening and closing credits, too. Of course, there's lots of music and, even though I'm not much of a fan of rap, I'd have to say it was all well done, especially "It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp", which (deservedly) won the Oscar for best original song.
In the end, Brewer & company unfold a compelling story with enough grit to give it an air of authenticity. Quality music and a star-making turn by Terrence Howard add to the film's appeal, resulting in a movie that's likely to surpass your expectations.