The Criterion Channel has unveiled an exciting film program to commemorate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Starting from August 1 and featuring ongoing additions throughout the year, this streaming service will showcase a collection of films that capture the essence of hip-hop’s evolution. The lineup includes a diverse range of movies, offering a glimpse into the early days of the scene, insightful portraits of musical mastery and technical innovation, and star-studded depictions of the culture’s profound impact.
Among the films featured are timeless classics like “Style Wars” and “Wild Style” from 1983, Spike Lee’s iconic “Do the Right Thing,” Jim Jarmusch’s samurai film scored by RZA, “Ghost Dog,” Michael Rapaport’s documentary on A Tribe Called Quest, Hype Williams’ “Belly,” and John Singleton’s “Boyz n the Hood” and “Poetic Justice.” The complete programming lineup can be found below.
Ashley Clark, the curatorial director for Criterion, expressed great enthusiasm about this comprehensive series, stating, “We’re thrilled to present this diverse collection that showcases the multifaceted presence of hip-hop in film over the past 50 years. From pivotal early documentaries such as ‘Wild Style’ and ‘Style Wars’ to an array of captivating works, there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re an avid enthusiast or just starting to explore.”
Style Wars Is Still the Defining Documentary of Early Hip-Hop Culture
August 1
- “Style Wars,” directed by Tony Silver (1983)
- “Wild Style,” directed by Charlie Ahearn (1983)
- “Beat Street,” directed by Stan Lathan (1984)
- “Krush Groove,” directed by Michael Schultz (1985)
- “Deep Cover,” directed by Bill Duke (1992)
- “Fear of a Black Hat,” directed by Rusty Cundieff (1993)
- “Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai,” directed by Jim Jarmusch (1999)
- “Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme,” directed by Kevin Fitzgerald (2000)
- “Scratch,” directed by Doug Pray (2001)
- “Paid in Full,” directed by Charles Stone III (2002)
- “Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest,” directed by Michael Rapaport (2011)
- “Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap,” directed by Ice-T and Andy Baybutt (2012)
- “Jamel Shabazz Street Photographer,” directed by Charlie Ahearn (2013)
September 1
- “Do the Right Thing,” directed by Spike Lee (1989)
- “Boyz n the Hood,” directed by John Singleton (1991)
- “Poetic Justice,” directed by John Singleton (1993)
November 1
- “Belly,” directed by Hype Williams (1998)
- “Belly 2: Millionaire Boyz Club,” directed by Ivan Frank (2008)
To delve into the world of “Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai,” with an exceptional score by RZA, you can read the review below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about hip-hop film series
What is the Criterion Channel’s hip-hop film series?
The Criterion Channel is hosting a film series to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The series features a curated selection of films, including raw documentaries, insightful portraits, and impactful cultural films that highlight the evolution and impact of hip-hop.
When does the hip-hop film series begin and end?
The hip-hop film series on the Criterion Channel starts on August 1 and will continue throughout the year with additional films being added. It offers an extended period to explore the diverse range of movies that showcase the rich history and influence of hip-hop.
What kind of films are included in the hip-hop film series?
The hip-hop film series includes a wide variety of films. It features raw early documents of hip-hop’s key players, intimate and informative portraits of musical expertise and technical innovation, and definitive, star-studded depictions of hip-hop culture’s impact. From iconic classics like “Do the Right Thing” and “Boyz n the Hood” to influential documentaries like “Style Wars” and “Beats, Rhymes & Life,” there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a hip-hop expert or a beginner.
Can anyone access the hip-hop film series on the Criterion Channel?
Yes, the hip-hop film series on the Criterion Channel is accessible to subscribers of the streaming service. It offers an opportunity for both avid hip-hop enthusiasts and those new to the genre to explore and appreciate the cultural significance of hip-hop through the medium of film.
Who curated the hip-hop film series?
The hip-hop film series was curated by Ashley Clark, the curatorial director for Criterion. With expertise and passion for cinema and hip-hop culture, Ashley Clark has selected a diverse lineup of films that capture the essence and evolution of hip-hop over the past 50 years.
Are there any specific highlights in the hip-hop film series?
Yes, some notable highlights in the hip-hop film series include “Style Wars” and “Wild Style” from 1983, Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing,” Jim Jarmusch’s “Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai” with a score by RZA, as well as documentaries such as “Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest” and “Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap.” The lineup offers a mix of seminal films and lesser-known gems that collectively celebrate the influence and cultural impact of hip-hop.
How can I find the full programming lineup for the hip-hop film series?
The full programming lineup for the hip-hop film series on the Criterion Channel can be found below the announcement. It includes the titles, directors, and release years of the films being showcased during different periods of the series.
More about hip-hop film series
- Criterion Channel
- Style Wars
- Wild Style
- Do the Right Thing
- Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai
- Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of a Tribe Called Quest
- Something From Nothing: The Art of Rap
- Boyz n the Hood
- Poetic Justice
- Belly
3 comments
Yo, dis hip-hop film series gonna be lit! Gotta give props to Ashley Clark for curatin’ such an epic lineup. Ready to dive into da culture, rhyme by rhyme, scene by scene. Time to celebrate 50 years of hip-hop on da big screen!
Criterion Channel stayin’ on top of their game! Lovin’ the variety in this hip-hop film series. From old school docs to modern classics, gonna be a journey through the history of hip-hop. Can’t miss it!
wow dis hip-hop film series sounds dope! criterion channel always comin thru with da goods. gonna watch all dem raw documntaris n classic films, gonna be a wild ride!