This Is the Life

This Is The Life is an incredible and inspiring documentary film which delves into the captivating world of underground hip-hop in Los Angeles during the late eighties and early nineties. Directed by Ava DuVernay, known for her work on numerous praised films like Selma, the directorial prowess truly shines throughout the feature.

The film gives an intimate and comprehensive view of the famous Good Life Cafe, a health food store located in South Central LA that also doubled as an open-mic space for burgeoning rappers, musicians, and performers. It served as a unique platform and nurturing space for upcoming talent who were trying to make it big in the industry, and who were not satisfied with the commercial and mainstream music that was so easily accessible.

What sets this film apart is its first-hand storytelling. Participants recount shared experiences within this nurturing incubator, amidst a backcloth of home videos, animated sequences intermingled with new interviews. It’s not just figures imbued in the rap industry being represented, it’s the holistic entirety of the Good Life Cafe and the expansive community which it cultivated.

The narrative unfolds through a series of interviews with individuals who were regulars at the café. Noteworthy personalities include Jurassic 5, Medusa, Cut Chemist, Pigeon John, and others artists who found their voice and a loving community in the heart of the Good Life universe. These rappers, poets, and spectators provide the viewer with rewarding insights into the ideals, aspirations, struggles, and triumphs of an entire generation. DuVernay’s touch as a director shines through as she flawlessly allows the participants' perspectives to take the lead, instigating a relatable echo of humanity throughout what might otherwise have been a static, informative guide to an era no longer in existence.

An encapsulation of LA’s cultural and musical history, the film serves as a visual tapestry that threads together the influence and impact of music on personal identities and how community spaces can foster talent and ignite unprecedented social change. The theme of the film isn’t just central to the evolution of Hip Hop as a genre but also magnifies the essence of self-expression and the importance of unity in art.

While the film is deeply embedded in the world of music, it's also a commentary on creativity and its influence over conventional norms and mainstream culture. It emphasizes the power music and art have to challenge societal expectations, bring people from various walks of life together and highlights the importance of cultural inclusivity.

Additionally, this documentary doesn't shy away from the realities of the socio-political environment of the times. It examines the intersectionality of music with racial tensions, cultural stigma and the then-prevalent police brutality in the region. It casts light on how hip-hop, for many artists, was not just a platform to showcase their talent but also a means to protest against racial inequality and economic burdens.

A powerful mix of potent nostalgia and striking realities, "This Is The Life," radiates energy from minute one and keeps the viewer engaged throughout its run time. Whether or not you're a fan of hip-hop, the raw emotion, genuine enthusiasm, and vibrant history shown in the film is universally appealing. The film's historic perspective is an important beacon for those interested in comprehending the roots of contemporary music, culture, and societal norms.

To succinctly put it, "This Is the Life" is a remarkable historical documentation of a music genre that has left an indelible impact on global music and culture. It is not merely a film but a tribute to the spirit of music, the beauty of community, and the strength of a shared cultural experience. The audience leaves with a profound understanding of the transformative power of art and a newfound respect for the world of underground hip-hop. It’s a must-watch for all music enthusiasts, historians, educators, or just about anyone who appreciates a well-told story.