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Review

In just a few short years 50 Cent has seen an unprecedented rise from a virtually unknown rapper making some underground noise with a succession of street level mix tapes to a multimedia phenomenon. Branding everything from sneakers to video games to vitamin water (and yes, even music) and not only succeeding but surpassing any and all expectations. His life and success is very much a living expression of the American dream. He remains a true embodiment of the phrase - originally coined on his Multi-platinum record that started it all - “Get Rich or Die Tryin.”

The film, Get Rich or Die Tryin, doesn’t stray too far from the rappers own life story. Sure, Marcus, 50’s character in the film is from the Bronx and not Jamaica, Queens. And the names and many events have been changed, dramatized or outright embellished. But the essence of the story is the same. Marcus’ mother was a drug dealer who died when he was young as was 50’s. Marcus began dealing drugs soon after her death, eventually landing him self in jail – like 50. And like the much hyped saga of Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson, Marcus is shot and narrowly escapes death, only to rise to bigger and better things through his music.

Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson’s performance, while at times clumsy and inexpressive, works here. Not only because he is essentially playing himself, but because the lack of emotion he displays actually enhances the depiction of this character. Marcus is essentially detached and cold because of the lack of love and stability he had growing up. 50’s own undeniable charisma and unassuming nature are also assets. And while these traits do not make Jackson a great actor, they do work for this film and the story.

The rapper gains a great deal of support from his extremely talented supporting cast, who are able to guide him through much of the scenes. Terrence Howard gives another triumphant performance and Joy Bryant, as Marcus’ love interest is superb, adding an air of tenderness and sincerity that could have very easily been overlooked or otherwise ignored.

While many times it seems the film is about to plunge headlong into the stereotypical ‘urban gangsta’ yarn, it somehow never completely loses its allure. The compelling nature of the narrative and its star is just too powerful to dismiss. This is 50 Cent’s key to success - his brutal honesty, unwavering ambition and strength of personality. And in the end, vanity project or no, the kid 50 Cent has not only accomplished, but conquered yet another endeavor. So the only question now is: What’s next, Gangstaaa?

 -- PJ