Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Dope (2015)

What is it about?

Malcolm, a geeky high schooler, has his life changed at a party in the rough neighborhood of Inglewood, California. 

Who is in it? 

Shameik Moore - Malcolm

Tony Revolori - Jib

Kiersey Clemons - Diggy

Favorite Scene: 

After realizing there was drugs in his backpack, Malcolm runs toward the band room with his friends and freaks out. 

Favorite Quote: 

"All I know about drugs is that Jeezy is paying LeBron, and Jay is paying Dwyane Wade!"

Review:

Dope is a film that I'm very much torn on. For every moment I enjoyed the film, there was a moment in which I shook my head in disgust. Why? Well, simply put, the film does a great job of having a storyline arc that relates to any inner city kid with a goofy enough feel that mirrors House Party, another classic. However, it also does a very poor job in depicting the black youth and assuming every child has to sling drugs or hold a gun to make it out of the hood. 

Focusing on the good, Dope is very funny in certain moments, especially when it comes to the wacky and zany adventure that Malcolm experiences following the party. The characters of the three kids are dynamic enough that they each compliment the overlying story. 

Also, the soundtrack is absolutely awesome. From the 90's hip hop tracks to the original tracks from the band, you'll definitely bop your head many times. 

As for the bad, there are some moments that certainly feel eye rolling, unnecessary, or just flat out stupid. Without giving away the plot, there is also a twist that is downright dumb. 

All in all, Dope is still worth the watch in this interesting coming of age film. Don't expect something in the art form of Boyz N the Hood, but Dope does have it's moments, including a very powerful moment towards the end of the film. 

With that said, Dope is still worth the watch for you to form your own opinion. 

Grade: 3/5

Recently Read

Dear Son, Big Fan of the Kid Turning Seven

---7 Years Old --- Dear Son,  It’s been a while since I’ve dropped a few thoughts. Forgive me, I’ve just been watching. Just observing. Taking it all in. Trying to be a good dad. I’m punching the keys today from one of your martial arts practices. It’s your second with “the big kids” and also the second time I’ve found myself watching from the sidelines with anxiety, with pride, and with likely my biggest fandom for you yet in this space. My feelings are much more than you playing baseball or coaching you in basketball. Your disposition is different. Your excellence is different in this space. With martial arts, you stay diligent with the process. Respectful. Working hard. Getting better. In competition with and respecting the older kids you are training with. That’s what I’ve enjoyed. It encapsulates everything you’ve grown into thus far. Still empathetic as ever, but adding an element of self-ambition and drive - something I’ve prided myself on - and to see you mature into this m...

Working in Higher Ed, Lately

"Working in higher education must be interesting these days, huh?" That question was posed to me by several people who recently learned that I worked in higher education. The recent discourse around the industry and field has certainly shifted in narrative and the overall feel within it. I recently wrapped up my fourteenth (!!) academic year. It's remarkable to think that I've been serving students and following a passion for this long. This is especially the case considering the rising turnover, the documented yearly burnout, and the increasing exodus from the field.  And, yup, there is that whole enrollment cliff combined with the politics that are more present than ever on college campuses.  So yeah, higher education is weird right now. Very weird.  Some quick thoughts : IS IT TIME?  Yes, I have thought about leaving the field several times. Especially, over the last few years. COVID didn't really bother me, but it's safe to say that the world of higher edu...

Quick Ponder: Living for Your Kids

Many, are willing to die for their kids. Few, are committed to live for their kids.