Last night, Ice-T premiered his new film The Art of Rap — a documentary steeped in hip-hop history that breaks down the technique and science behind rapping — at a private screening held at New York’s Tribeca Cinemas. Ice — who makes his directorial debut with the doc — was present for the event and, eagerly, answered questions from the crowd about his intent and expectations, which was to “take us on an intimate journey into the hearts and soul of hip-hop with the legends of rap music.” Mission accomplished. Despite early industry rumblings regarding the few not featured in the film (most notably Jay-Z), Ice did an incredible job gathering a mix of obvious legends like Melle Mel, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane and Grandmaster Caz while throwing in a few surprises like Eminem, Dr. Dre and Kanye West. Here are five reasons (not that you need them) to see Ice-T’s The Art of Rap:
5. Amazing Quotables
Imagine having the opportunity to pick the brain of your favorite hip-hop legend. When Ice-T turns the camera on he gets some of the most classic responses, like Grandmaster Caz addressing hip-hop and reinvention or Kool Keith on his rhyming style: “I’m like the Russian Government.” The documentary is chock full of one-liners and rap tales worth paying for.
4. It’s Not Just a Bronx Tale
We all know hip-hop got it’s start in New York, and Ice-T spends the bulk of the film in the Big Apple, but some of the best scenes take place when the rap legend-turned-actor-turned-director heads cross country.
3. It’s Like a Hip-Hop Family Reunion
The best part of any reunion is catching up with friends and family. The Art of Hip-Hop features a cast of emcees who’ve (for the most part) been out of the limelight for enough time that you’ll be genuinely excited to see them.
2. Who Doesn’t Love a Good Back-story
No spoiler alert needed, but let’s just say The Art of Rap features some interesting stories about KRS-One and Kanye West’s first time rapping. While West and KRS lamented over their first stab at rapping, others like Rev. Run and Chuck D recall being at the height of fame, and what it meant to be pioneers.
1. Kanye, Eminem and Dr. Dre
I hate to say it, but there’s something to be said for having known recluses Dr. Dre and Eminem, and mega-star Kanye West featured in the film. There’s no doubt the documentary would still be stellar without the big names, but having contemporary rap stars involved is a great boost.