The Art of Rap

If you are looking for a cheesy Inside the Music style expose of the underbelly of rap music – the hustlers and hoes, the Crystal and the blow – then look somewhere else. Directed by Ice T – that’s right, Ice T – this is a serious study of the men and women who created the rap genre, as well as those who still carry the flag in its honor. And although it’s a serious look at rap music, don’t make the mistake of thinking that means it is dull or scholarly because it’s not. Ice T, who acts as host for the film, too, is the perfect guy to interview other rap stars and not just because he’s been in the game longer than some of today’s ‘rap stars’ have been alive. The key to it all is the honest enthusiasm he brings to each interview, combined with his obvious passion for the other players. It’s a blast to watch him ask everyone what other rap artists lyrics they have stuck in their head, the listen to them belt the lyric out for the camera. When Ice T joins in because he just can’t help himself, you know you are watching pure love on the screen.