Rhinegold

Rhinegold 2022

6.55

Xatar’s way from the ghetto to the top of the charts is as dramatic as it is daring: Fatih Akin’s new film is based on the autobiographical novel »Alles oder Nix« (»All or Nothing«) of the probably most authentic exponent of German gangsta rap. From the hell of an Iraqi jail, Giwar Hajabi (Emilio Sakraya) emigrated to Germany as a young boy with his family in the mid-1980s and has to start right at the bottom. There are opportunities, but far more obstacles. Giwar’s rise from petty criminal to major dealer is swift. Until one shipment goes missing. In order to clear his debts with the cartel, he plans a legendary gold heist. But just as everything goes wrong, another door opens for Giwar thanks to his passion for music …

2022

Welcome to Death Row

Welcome to Death Row 2001

7.40

The record label Death Row Records has, since its creation in 1993, been synonymous with the American hip-hop climate. Formed by ex-bodyguard Suge Knight, the label has released seminal rap albums from luminaries including Dr. Dre, Snoop Doggy Dogg, and the famous hip-hop martyr Tupac Shakur. WELCOME TO DEATH ROW is a fascinating, well-researched documentary which explores the history of this intriguing and incredibly significant company.

2001

Ice Cube: The Making of a Don

Ice Cube: The Making of a Don 2004

5.00

A true-life tale of the Great American Dream, this movie showcases one man's rise from the streets of South Central L.A. to the hills of Hollywood. Features photos and videos of the man himself and his contemporaries.

2004

American Dream/American Knightmare

American Dream/American Knightmare 2018

6.30

Documentary that delves deep into the life and storied exploits of the iconic Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight, as well as the volatile and highly influential era in gangsta rap he presided over. Through a series of interviewers face to face with director Antoine Fuqua, Knight reveals exactly how it all happened and why it all fell apart. Knight is currently in jail pending trial on murder, attempted-murder and hit-and-run charges.

2018

Rap Damage

Rap Damage 1991

1

Thurston on a bender. Shot one day during a break on the Ragged Glory Tour. Hip Hopped-up NYC roadie Maurice Menares plays the psychotic sidekick/bunny. Offensively endearing, in the face of P.E., N.W.A., REM, and Desert Storm. Chance occurrence of fire, predating the LA riots. Stopping at yard sales, ended up on Venice beach. By the end of the day, I went nuts. Keep in mind, this was at a time when "Rico Suave" by Gerrardo was in heavy rotation.

1991

Just a phase

Just a phase 2011

10.00

Gangsta rap gone wrong: Oldschool hitman "The Raven" is a legend. Stealthy, efficient and strictly a solo act. But this time he is forced to accept a very special partner: the local mob boss' son. The dimwitted teenager unfortunately made a rap video in which he brags about all of his daddy's crimes. Now everyone involved in the making of that video has to die and daddy's dearest is required to help clean up his mess. But how secretive, efficient and swift can you be, if you have to be faster than social media?

2011