I'm Bout It

I'm Bout It is a 1997 American drama film that marked the directorial debut of the southern hip-hop artist, Percy "Master P" Miller. The film is an authentic look into the projects of New Orleans, packed with raw realism and a flair of urban life. It is an unfiltered exploration of an aspect of American society that is often overlooked, infused with the hard-hitting musical background and gritty themes that are at the core of the southern gangsta rap scene of the 90s.

The second film under Master P's No Limit Films banner after his short film, "Da Last Don", I'm Bout It is inspired by the rapper's experiences growing up in the projects of New Orleans and the struggles he encountered on his way to superstardom. Master P portrays the leading character, a quick-witted and resourceful hustler named Perry, who showcases the relentless grit and determination it takes to survive in the harsh realities of the projects.

Co-starring Anthony Boswell and Cassandra Cheatam, as well as several up-and-coming actors from New Orleans, the movie provides a gritty, unvarnished portrayal of life on the streets from the perspective of those living it. Boswell gives a strong performance as Perry's brother, leading him through their tough journey. Cheatam, on the other hand, plays a pivotal role as Perry's love interest, showcasing a softer and warmer side amidst the hard exterior of the character.

Contrary to usual Hollywood glamour, I'm Bout It intentionally opts for a low-budget, straightforward aesthetic to drive home the authenticity of its scenario. The filmmakers avoided professional actors for many of the roles and instead cast locals who could bring a real-world feel to the performances. It results in a movie that is distinctive and raw, delivering a brutal but truthful slice of life narrative on the city's disadvantaged areas.

In many ways, the film embodies the spirit of the remarkable DIY culture that permeated the south's independent rap scene in the late 90s. I'm Bout It was financed, written, produced, and directed by Master P, and other members of his No Limit Records roster, like his brothers Silkk the Shocker and C-Murder, also make appearances in the film. Their contribution to the movie extends beyond their acting roles. As musicians, they also helped mold the film’s influential soundtrack, a groundbreaking mix of southern rap and hip-hop.

The music is undoubtedly one of the movie's standout elements. The rich tapestry of tracks from Master P and other No Limit Records artists not only accompanies the movie's plot but is woven into the very fabric of the storyline. The soundtrack resonates with the atmosphere of New Orleans' underbelly, acting as musical narration that brings a deeper understanding and relatability to the characters and the world they inhabit.

I'm Bout It showcases the sights, sounds, and realities of urban life in New Orleans with a startling directness and authenticity. It is a groundbreaking example of independent cinema that, driven by the unyielding vision and entrepreneurial spirit of Master P, goes beyond mere entertainment. The movie offers invaluable insights into corner culture, drug trafficking, societal struggles, familial bonds, and the courageous attempts to break free of confining socioeconomic realities.

The movie context also educated its viewers about the local patois, cuisine, lifestyle, and community dynamics in the New Orleans projects. Like its title, which borrows the local slang term for asserting one's toughness or resilience, the film captures perfectly the spirit of determination and defiance that defined the rap scene and urban life in the southern United States during the era.

In conclusion, I'm Bout It is a movie that embodies the raw, undiluted spirit of underground hip-hop and presents a never-before-seen perspective of life in the New Orleans projects. The film is not just a dramatic narrative but a cultural time capsule that captures the essence of a time, place, and people, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music, culture, and urban sociology.