Boyz n the Hood (1991)

It’s rare for me to take a serious approach to what I write about, but I feel like I need to take that approach here and talk about the late great John Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood. First off, I was very impressed when I learned that Singleton was only 23 years old when he wrote and directed this movie and that this was his first one as well. Second, I can’t actually remember the last time a movie played with my emotions and brought me to tears but this movie succeeded there. And, it takes a lot to make a blank slate like me feel that way. Out of all the movies on my bucket list of films I haven’t seen yet I’m glad I saw this one first. I’ve seen some pretty good hood movies before but I think this might be the best one yet. It even makes for a great coming-of-age story too. I will admit, it can be a tough watch but it’s totally worth a viewing and if there’s any movie that I think everyone should see at least once in their life, this one is definitely one of them. I have so much more to say about this masterpiece so let’s jump right into it.

     The film follows three young males living in South Central Los Angeles, where they navigate the harsh realities of gang violence, systemic racism, relationships, and personal responsibility. It features a strong and talented cast that includes Cuba Gooding Jr., Ice Cube, Morris Chestnut, Laurence Fishburne, Angela Bassett, Nia Long, Regina King, and a whole entire cast that delivers A+ performances. I’ve seen a lot of movies with a great ensemble cast and this one was pretty excellent. I couldn’t find one flaw in the performances and that’s coming from a very observant hyperfixion like myself. From the very start, the story had me sucked in and it took me in different directions that I wasn’t sure it would go. The characters are so well written and performed that you feel like you’re on this journey with them. When you feel as connected to these characters and what they go through like I did, that pretty much tells you just how great they are. As I said before, the movie can be tough to sit through but it’s still an important one to watch and it feels great to have finally seen it. I can say without a doubt that it was one hell of a ride and I can guarantee the same thing for a lot of people.

     If there’s one thing I love, it’s a great success story, and I’m always going to be amazed with how John Singleton brought this triumphant film to life at such a young age and he was certainly a huge loss to the world. He created such a mesmerizing and splendid work of art and like any work of art, it will captivate you and pull you in further. Another thing about this movie is how well it holds up today and the lessons that it teaches its audience. I don’t know how much more I can say because I’m afraid I might spoil something. But hey, don’t take the word of a rambling and overthinking detailer like myself. Whatever I say wouldn’t be nearly enough to describe how great this movie is. It’s just something you have to see to believe. Overall, I give this movie a perfect 10 out of 10. So, if you’re a fan of powerful dramas, coming-of-age stories, or if you appreciate movies with a strong emotional core, then I would highly recommend checking this one out. I can assure you that you’ll be just as engaged as I was.