NOTORIOUS (2009)

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"No Dream Is Too Big"

Okay, so none of my previous reviews have been any good. I'm guessing it's because I don't give much insight as to why it's great, good or bad and I usually give away the ending. Without giving away the ending (which should already be known for this film), I present my reviwe of 'Notorious'.

For the longest biopics have been in production or in development hell, so to speak. In January of 2009, director George Tillman Jr., directed the film about the legendary emcee from Brooklyn, New York who made his claim to fame with the classic LP, 'Ready To Die'. The film is produced by the late rapper's mother Voletta Wallace and Sean Combs (Diddy).

The film stars heavyset newcomer, Jamal Woolard (who is also a rapper-mostly underground-from Brooklyn), who took acting classes to play the rapper. Actress Angela Bassett portrays Big's mother Voletta. Actor Derek Luke (of Friday Night Lights) also plays Sean 'Puffy' Combs. The rest of the cast includes mostly newcomers. Anthony Mackie portrays Tupac Shakur.

The film almost seems like the phrase 'your life flashes just before you die'. Not to ruin anything, but the film opens with Biggie, Puffy and the entourage partying and promoting Big's second LP, 'Life After Death'. After the club goers are told to evacuate, Biggie and the entourage drive away in their truck, where Biggie is fatally shot to death multiple times.

The film is a bit quick for something about one's life. The film did not feature any appearances by other rappers that were around in Biggie's time. Somewhat of a hip hop rivalry between Nas and Big was not mentioned. Rapper Method Man is also not mentioned, although he was the only guest rapper on Big's debut album.

Rapper Maino, who hails from Brooklyn makes a cameo appearance in a rapple battle scene bewtween Biggie and a guy named Primo (Red Café). Diddy himself appears in the movie but who knows what the hell he was doing.

The film does focus on Biggie's point of you and does include the 'East Coast Vs. West Coast' feud between Tupac and Biggie. It shows how it began, where it started and how liberal media is able escalate it. After a while you get aggravated with how ignorant people can be.

The acting was great. Obviously I don't need to explain the premise. If you are a fan of rap music or movies in general, give this film a look. Being my review is late check it out on DVD. The DVD includes the theatrical release as well as the Unrated Director's Cut.