Straight Outta Compton R
Depicting the rise to fame and resulting controversy surrounding the early careers of N.W.A. (an abbreviation of Niggaz Wit Attitudes), Straight Outta Compton details the aspirations of young rappers Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Eazy-E, MC Ren, Arabian Prince and DJ Yella. When these artists form an influential rap outfit, the group hits it big, but they are hindered by the cops’ refusal to protect them at their concerts, even as the members struggle to get a fair payday from crooked promoters and record labels. The film is produced by Ice Cube and Dr. Dre, who downplay N.W.A.’s humiliating treatment of women but emphasize the police brutality issues that remain relevant three decades on. (Lisa Miller)
