Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Straight Outta Compton (2015)

What is it about? 

The story of the rise and fall of the N.W.A. group. 

Who is in it?

O'Shea Jackson Jr. - Ice Cube

Corey Hawkins - Dr. Dre

Jason Mitchell - Eazy E

Favorite Scene: 

After taking their tour to Detroit, the group were warned by lawn enforcement to not play "F--- The Police". Mid-way through the show, the group decides to, which eventually leads to them getting arrested and a riot breaking out. 

Favorite Quote: 

"Speak a little truth and people lose their minds."

Review: 

I wasn't sure what to expect when it came to Straight Outta Compton. Many had high regards for it, others told me it wasn't that great. Then of course, there is the whole issue regarding the Oscars. 

In my opinion, SOC is an absolutely fantastic film. So well done. So different from other portrayals of rap or hip hop movies based on the artists (see: Notorious, and all of it's terribleness). The film is shot so well, especially it's camera angles and cinematography - it really is a wonder to watch. The addition of real news clips from the past was also a nice touch that added to the authenticity and feel of the film.

As for the talent, everyone involved with casting deserves the highest praise. O'Shea Jackson Jr.'s portrayal of his dad was downright scary. Corey Hawkins was great as Dr. Dre. And finally, of them all, Jason Mitchell stole the movie as Eazy E. 

Again, a phenomenal film. How this film wasn't nominated for an Oscar is mind boggling. But then again, is it really? 

All in all, a really good film if you were on the fence about SOC. 

Grade: 4/5

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: Future Self

We always think,  what would we say  to our  younger self? However,  what would  our younger self say  if they met us, today?