Review: Freestyle - The Art of Rhyme (B)

Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme (2000)
Directed by Kevin Fitzgerald
Starring The Last Poets, Supernatural, Mos Def and Medusa
MPAA: UR
Grade: B

Review by Bobby Nashville

I'm a huge fan of old school rap, particularly Run DMC, Grandmaster Flash and Afrika Bambaataa. Although I am pretty much up to speed on the history of hip hop, I have to admit that I have lost touch with the latest trends. Freestyle is a refreshing film that got me caught up with what's happening in hip hop, without preaching.

The evolution of hip hop is fascinating, and the incredible documentary Freestyle does a great job of showing where the art form is at, and where it is going. Freestyle rappers are different than "written word" hip hoppers because they make up their rhymes right on the spot. In other words, they improvise their rhymes.

MCs (rappers) also battle each other by trading rhymes back and forth. Each rapper must address the topics raised by the other, as this ensures that the rhymes are truly made up on the spot. There is an interesting storyline within this documentary about the freestyler Supernatural and his battles with other MCs. Basically, like the old west, once you are on top, everyone is gunning for you.

Freestyle shines a light on a fascinating art form that often goes unnoticed by the general public. This film has won numerous awards, including two wins for best documentary. Freestyle is highly recommend, especially if you are interested in hip hop, poetry or music in general.