An intriguing look at life amongst the black urban classes in Los Angeles, BOYZ N THE HOOD might well be described as the black STAND BY ME. It's certainly an intense, well-acted and surprisingly mature drama that explores life, liberty, family relationships, education, and of course gang culture, examining what makes people tick and what leads to the senseless violence and murder that's blighted the streets since forever.
John Singleton is careful never to preach his messages, although there is a preacher of sorts in the movie: the excellent Laurence Fishburne as the mild-mannered but steely-eyed father who wants only the best for his kids. The acting from the young black cast, including Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut, and Ice Cube, is fresh and invigorating, as these guys actually manage to capture the fire and conflict within the souls of their characters. Nothing much that happens in BOYZ N THE HOOD will shock or surprise, as sadly the daily news is much, much worse, but this is a remarkably tough social drama that manages to be heartfelt at the same time. Authenticity is key.
John Singleton is careful never to preach his messages, although there is a preacher of sorts in the movie: the excellent Laurence Fishburne as the mild-mannered but steely-eyed father who wants only the best for his kids. The acting from the young black cast, including Cuba Gooding Jr., Morris Chestnut, and Ice Cube, is fresh and invigorating, as these guys actually manage to capture the fire and conflict within the souls of their characters. Nothing much that happens in BOYZ N THE HOOD will shock or surprise, as sadly the daily news is much, much worse, but this is a remarkably tough social drama that manages to be heartfelt at the same time. Authenticity is key.