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Musical Protest

Watching 8 Mile was an enlightening experience for me specially that I have no understanding or familiarity with this genre of music. I used to wonder about the allure of rap music and listening to the lyrics for the first time while watching this movie, it started to make sense. As we grow more sensitive and politically correct, there needs to be space where rules can be broken safely while creating music and art. There is empowerment in that. What was a big revelation to me is a well known fact. 

I was more familiar with the negative connotations and did not think about such music being a form of protest. The supporting cast is great and they go a long way in giving the troubled under-dog story some heft and authenticity. One of my favorite scenes was Eminem tucking in his baby sister making up a lullaby on the fly. His rapping talent put to mundane use but the little girl's face lights up with happiness. In the middle of the dysfunctional family situation with an absent and alcoholic mother, he brings a bit of joy to this child who is shown running scared and fending for herself the best she can. Overall, the movie is offers a taste of rap culture and holds it own even for people like me who know nothing about it. I am sure there are better movies in the genre but for a novice viewer this may be good enough.

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