Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme

"Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme", directed by famous filmmaker Kevin Fitzgerald (a.k.a. DJ Organic), is a 2000 documentary that works as much more than just a celebration of the often overlooked American hip-hop subculture phenomenon, that is, freestyle rap. The film features performances and interviews from a remarkable roll-call of hip-hop royalty, including the likes of Chali 2na of Jurassic 5, Muhammad Ali, Planet Asia and many more. Fitzgerald weaves together an intricate tapestry of witty wordplay, urban culture, and musical history in this unparalleled cinematic work.

In "Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme", Fitzgerald takes us on a trip back to the roots of freestyle rap, a time when lyrics were spontaneous, sharp, and beautifully woven together in the moment without prior composition or forethought. It documents the evolution of this art form, from its humble beginnings in the mid-1980s New York City, where it acted as a voice for the voiceless, to its present-day manifestation, a commercialised and immensely popular form of music that continues to shape global pop culture.

The film introduces us to a variety of artists, enriching the narrative with their means of expression. Chali 2na, with his deep, distinctive voice, emerges as a charismatic storyteller, utilizing a freestyle rap as a tool for both creativity and awareness. On the other hand, the legendary Muhammad Ali is presented, not in his usual boxing persona, but as an adroit poet who pioneered a new form of psychological warfare using rhymes and rhythm. Planet Asia, a California-born rapper whose real name is Jason Green, also features in the film, leaving audiences awestruck with his intense lyrical prowess. The documentary provides an excellent platform for these diverse artists, allowing them to showcase their unique backgrounds and their deep-rooted love for the art of freestyle rap.

Where "Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme" truly shines is in its exploration of the countless, intriguing aspects of the freestyle culture - the impromptu 'battles' where rappers exchange rhymes as a test of skill and wit, the poetic depth that many verses have, the concept of 'flow' in the structure of rap verses, and the overall influence of this art form on hip-hop and urban culture at large. These elements are beautifully piece together to provide an immersive experience that takes the audience deep into this art form.

The documentary also delves into the elements of urban Black culture that have influenced and continue to shape freestyle rap. It highlights how this form of musical expression is intrinsically linked to narratives of struggle, resilience, social commentary, politics, and identity. The stories involve battles - not only on the mic but also against social injustices, racial discrimination, and poverty. It portrays freestyle rap as not just an entertaining spectacle but as an essential medium for the silenced communities to express themselves.

Balanced with this weighty content, however, is a keen sense of fun. The film contains plenty of lighter moments too, capturing the sheer enjoyment that freestyle artists derive from mastering their craft and the vibrant energy they bring to their performances. Fitzgerald brilliantly captures the raw, infectious energy of freestyle rap, with its rapid-fire wordplay and explosive crowd reactions.

Other highlights of the film include its memorable performances, vivid frames, and, of course, its fantastic soundtrack. The gritty, effervescent beats of hip-hop pulse throughout, perfectly encapsulating the vital, dynamic spirit of this music genre.

"Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme" does a commendable job of painting an all-inclusive picture of freestyle rap culture. It's an absolute must-watch for the hip-hop aficionados and a fascinating dive into the world of an art form that has been so impactful yet remains amply unexplored by mainstream media. The film offers a deeply humanistic insight into the microcosm of freestyle rap, making it a valuable addition to the discourse on the cultural importance of this musical form. As such, "Freestyle: The Art of Rhyme" is not just a documentary about a music genre; it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.