Review of Slingshot Hip Hop (2008) by Richard S — 24 Jan 2008
SLINGSHOT HIP HOP is about Palestinian rappers living in Gaza and the West Bank. It's political hip hop and much about the occupation and wanting peace and creating an outlet for the Palestinian youth who are mainly bored and resorting to drugs and violence.
First of all, these guys are really talented. Great beats and progressive lyrics. Jackie Reem Salloum (the director) does a nice job of showcasing this talent while at the same time telling the story of how these guys (and a few girls) found hip hop and how it has really saved them and created a dialogue for social change.
There's a great scene where the guys from the west bank (who started the movement) watch a taped concert of the guys in Gaza. They had no idea there even was hip hop in Gaza, and are so moved after seeing the performance.
Because of the occupation no one can enter or leave Gaza, and so although they've never met they connect on the phone and on the internet and the excitement and giddiness and mutual respect between these guys is just inspiring.
It's a real testament to the power of music and hip hop esp as an outlet for expression and change.
This review of Slingshot Hip Hop (2008) was written by Richard S on 24 Jan 2008.
Slingshot Hip Hop has generally received very positive reviews.
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