A film with a message that will transcend generations

Rating: 9/10 (23 August 2015)

When it comes to biopics, I can proudly say that 'Straight Outta Compton' now ranks as one of my favourites. Ever since seeing the trailer, I just knew that it was going to be something that mainstream audiences had yet to experience. The film holds no punches when showing the rise and fall of N.W.A – it introduces a level of intensity rarely seen in biopics. F. Gary Gray and his crew did a wonderful job in recreating some - if not most - of the rap group's defining experiences (with all the violence, racism, and betrayal any N.W.A fan would come to expect). The film also dives deep into each of the rapper's personal lives (or at least that of Eazy-E's, Dr. Dre's, and Ice Cube's) – displaying a sense of compassion and togetherness that's just as hard to forget as the brutality and grittiness.
The three lead actors - O'Shea Jackson, Jr. (Ice Cube), Corey Hawkins (Dr. Dre), and Jason Mitchell (Eazy-E) - all give great performances. However, if I had to choose one actor who particularly stood out, I would have to pick Jason Mitchell. His performance as the late rapper Eazy-E is gold. Despite not having any guidance from his counterpart like his co-stars, I felt as if Mitchell essentially made the role all on his own. From his character's rough beginnings as a drug dealer all the way to his depressing battle with HIV, Mitchell owns almost every scene he's in (it also doesn't hurt that his story-arc is the most dynamic of all the other characters'). I wouldn't be surprised if the cast of 'Straight Outta Compton' was nominated for some 'Best Ensemble' or 'Best Cast' awards.
The script is amazingly well-written. This is probably the only biopic that I have watched where I wasn't checking the time on my phone at certain parts; there wasn't a moment when I lose interest while watching ''Straight Outta Compton'. Simply said, there is never a dull moment. The pacing works. The structuring isn't confusing. All the emotional moments hit at the right time. And although it doesn't seem like there's a clear external goal for the characters to achieve (actually, there are several goals), this film works brilliantly as a character study.
SIDENOTE: I'm well aware of the release date for this film and certain events that have preceded it. However, for all intents and purposes, I will not be commenting on the socio-political aspects of this film. Aside from the fact that I like to keep focus of my reviews on the film itself rather than divulge into reality, I also believe that this film speaks with a strong, uncompromising voice that's hard to ignore. I don't believe the producers could have picked a better time to release this film.
I am adamant that 'Straight Outta Compton' will be remembered throughout generations. It is easily one of the best films I've seen in theatres this year and one that will make its way into many top ten lists by the end of this year. Everything – from the acting to the direction, to the production value – is top-notch. If you can somehow stomach the tough reality that these young men had to go through, then you'll find yourself watching a truly complex and profound masterpiece.