Ummm Taylor, I’ma let you finish, but DOPE was the best movie of all time. (Or at least 2015… Can we at least give it top 10?)

Look I’m no movie expert, but I have to tell you that this movie gave me all the feels. I’m going into this review completely blind, because I don’t want any negativity to corrupt how I’m feeling just moments after finishing it.

If you’re even remotely into exploring the concept of how society and surroundings construct a pathway for young men of color, then this movie is for you. It touches on everything from drugs, education, sex, humor, racial divide, violence, friendship, and there’s even a healthy dose of romance. There’s so much going on in the film, that if it weren’t done exactly how it was, it would be nearly un-enjoyable.

Pro tip: If you’re scared of boobs or twerking, do not watch this movie.

Before going any further, can I high five whoever casted with such brilliance? So many big names, that did not for one second outshine Shameik Moore is his first leading role as Malcolm. He was genius. Am I even qualified to say that? Not at all, but he was. So just take it from me, the girl sitting at home alone on a Friday night. Yup, totally know what I’m talking about.

My favorite (and if you are sane, will also be you’re favorite part) was the ending monologue. It came at the perfect time. Since the movie was starting to feel predictable in the best kind of way, it was filled with a hefty dose of sass for an otherwise wholesome, good time. I especially enjoyed the shooting dagger of white dominance right at the end. It hit me right in the gut and made me want to tear up, but I chose instead to raise my fist in solidarity just like Judd Nelson at the end of The Breakfast Club.

Bringing it all home was the music. Some of which, I have to admit, I already owned. Regardless, the homage to all the amazing hip hop artists both old and new, made me wish I had taken music history in college. It was beautifully written and not overdone.

Man! Do I have nothing but good things to say? Maybe I could find some negative qualities if I took the time to stop being so jazzed about it, but I won’t. It was great. It’s on Netflix. So why are you still here?

Go watch it. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll raise a fist.
… and eat some cake while you’re at it.

XXX

Izzi Marie