8 Mile

aka: Eight Mile
USA 2002, 110 minutes
Dir. Curtis Hanson
Rating: [R]
Genres: Drama, Music / R&B/Hip-hop

Topics: Rites-of-passage, African-American, Indigenous & Minority Cultures.

Feat. Eminem, Kim Basinger, Mekhi Phifer, Brittany Murphy, Michael Shannon

Aroview: Mainstream feature film vehicle for white rap star Eminem has a narrative typical of the “youth craze” genre – young working class wannabe overcomes prejudice and hardship to win respectability in his field of aspiration, in this case, the world of “freestyle” rap.

Tailor-made for the hip-hop crowd and especially followers of the one-time controversial rapper - for others it’s a peek into a rarefied black subculture (think boxing with rhymes instead of gloves) and a snapshot of a moment in pop culture. Conforms to Hollywood formula yet at least makes an attempt to put spin on the most blatant clichés, and has a final showdown that undeniably pulls you in.

Member Reviews

Average rating (Good Enough). Showing 1-3 of 3 member reviews.

I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
3 stars (Good Enough) Part biographical story of Eminem's rise to fame, from trailer-park/single-mom beginnings to landing a recording deal and international recognition. Despite being the least experienced actor here, he steals the show. Talented rapper, and actor. ~GenXGirl
I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
3 stars (Good Enough) Eminem is great as Rabbit, a white rapper in detroit struggling to make a name for himself in the rap game. Supported by a good cast, this is more than simply self-serving for Eminem, and well worth seeing. ~Tom H
I find this review offensive! I don’t agree with this review. I agree with this review.
3 stars (Good Enough) The bleak exterior scenes are well done and set the tone along with the constant beat of the rap. The casting is spot on. ~Tubbs