Rapaport must be a big fan because all of the folks involved are portrayed as either great guys or mildy upset only when greatly justified. The film focuses on their reunion in 2008, ten years after their most recent release. One of the band members is in need of a kidney transplant and they have all banded together to help him out with medical bills, or perhaps they are looking to make some extra bucks. There is nothing wrong with going for the cash, so I'm not demeaning that aspect of it, but even the hint that this was designed as an act of good will at any level is bit farfetched.
Stories are told by all of the members and other icons of Hip Hop to help us better understand what all of the fuss is about. Some of the stories are mildly entertaining but never gripping (except for one when there is an admission of an internal conflict among the band members, but even that feels watered down to protect everyone concerned).
By the end, judging by the audience's reaction, it is very easy to lend advice as to whether you might find this to be your idea of a good time. Clearly, if you were already a fan of A Tribe Called Quest, you will think this is extraordinary filmmaking. If you are not a fan going in, there is a chance you might like it and a chance that you won't care at all about it. Since I am in the latter camp, it didn't get me going. My personal quest went unrewarded.
| Movie title | Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest |
|---|---|
| Release year | 2011 |
| MPAA Rating | NR |
| Our rating | |
| Summary | Hip Hop superstars are presented as royalty that can do no wrong. There is an attempt to inject conflict, but it feels like it has been added in order to make it appear fair and balanced. |
