Talk:Prison Song
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Danny Hoch, a hip-hop theatre playwright, is in this movie. He wrote "Jails, Hospitals, & Hip-Hop," a good read if you like this genre. Also, I know some critic said this was a "cautionary tale for urban youth," but that's a gross misinterpretation. What's it cautioning against? Not having enough money to attend school? This movie is about telling people's stories and concerning yourself with individuals' identities -- not just thinking about prisoners as a monolithic group of "bad guys," but knowing their circumstances, thoughts, character. This is why the protagonist draws portraits of the individuals in the prison, and these portraits are showcased at the end one-by-one in an art show that finally showcases Elijah's character, an artist. The movie emphasizes the importance of education and outlets of expression. Ways for an individual to live out their personality. Violent J Was Given the Role to be a Prison Guard but declined after studios said he couldn't wear his ICP makeup
From www.rottentomatoes.com: "Rapper Q-Tip conceived and stars in this critique on the prison system and the idea of American justice. Characters allow the audience into their thoughts by breaking into song with solemnity in a manner that could introduce a younger, more jaded audience to the musical format. Darnell Martin (I LIKE IT LIKE THAT) offers compassionate direction and supporting work is provided by Mary J. Blige, Elvis Costello, and Danny Hoch."
