Watch The Hip Hop Project

The Hip Hop Project is a powerful and inspiring documentary film that follows the journey of a young man named Chris 'Kazi' Rolle as he sets out to help underprivileged inner-city kids in New York City discover their voices through hip-hop music. The film is directed by Matt Ruskin and executive produced by hip-hop industry mogul Russell Simmons, Grammy-winning rapper Doug E. Fresh, and Hollywood star Bruce Willis.

The documentary begins with Rolle, a former homeless teen who found solace in hip-hop, coming up with the idea of starting a hip-hop workshop for the youth in the projects. He gathers a group of talented students from various neighborhoods in the Bronx and Brooklyn, and together they embark on a challenging journey of writing, recording, producing, and performing their own original hip-hop tracks.

The film follows these young artists as they struggle to overcome poverty, academic challenges, and familial obstacles while trying to break through the music industry's barriers. Alongside Rolle, they learn to express their emotions, share their stories, and grow as individuals through the cathartic art of hip-hop. The Hip Hop Project showcases the transformative power of music and the positive impact it can have on young people's lives.

Throughout the film, viewers witness the students' progression as they mature as artists, hone their skills, and develop a deep sense of camaraderie and self-confidence. The documentary also explores issues of race, class, and the role that hip-hop music plays in urban communities. It also highlights the significance of mentorship, as Rolle serves as a powerful figure for these kids, and helps them navigate the pitfalls of the music industry.

The Hip Hop Project is not only a moving and inspiring documentary but also a call to action for society to invest in the youth and give them the tools they need to succeed. It celebrates the power of art to transform lives and create positive change in the world. The film's soundtrack includes original music from the students, as well as collaborations with hip-hop legends like Rakim, Nas, and Busta Rhymes.

In addition to the students' stories, the film also features interviews with hip-hop luminaries such as KRS-One, Juelz Santana, and MC Lyte, who share their own experiences with the genre and the importance of hip-hop culture. The Hip Hop Project confronts stereotypes about hip-hop and showcases its potential as a tool for empowerment and social change.

In conclusion, The Hip Hop Project is a must-watch film for anyone interested in the transformative power of music and the importance of investing in the youth. Rolle and his students' journeys are a testament to the resilience and creativity of urban communities and the potential that exists in all of us to overcome adversity and make a difference. The film stands as a testament to hip-hop's cultural significance and the role it can play as a force for positive change.

The Hip Hop Project is a 2007 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9 and a MetaScore of 66.