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STRAIGHT OUTTA COMPTON (2015)

9/1/2015 - Straight Outta Compton (2015) - 6-/10

Enjoyable and slightly above average biopic. This film feels more like a 5, but they do a wonderful job of letting the music (the best part of this film) tell the story, and if you like the music like I did then it bumps the expletive up to a 6.


This film's biggest flaw is it tries to be a bit too encompassing as far as characters, characterization, personal plot and societal story. Trying to cover so much with out a more refined approach allowed the story to meander and provide only light touches with things like character motivation or larger issues they wanted to tie-in (ie Rodney King/LA riots). This only intensified as the group moved on from NWA, but such can be the problem with biopics.
I can't speak to the validity of all the events or their placement in the narrative of NWA, but this iconic and revolutionary band made a huge impact and their story/collective stories made for an enjoyable watch. Being a fan will definitely aid in appreciation, but this is a decent film on its own. Not great, but serviceable.