Nas: Time Is Illmatic

Nas: Time Is Illmatic is a highly insightful 2014 American documentary film that embarks on a mesmerizing journey into the world of quintessential rapper, Nas. This unwavering exploration of his life stars not only Nas himself but also boasts appearances from cultural commentators like Cornel West and world-renowned musicians such as Pharrell Williams, lending their unique perspectives to the tale. Directed by One9, this film takes a closer look at one of hip hop's greatest and most enduring albums, Nas's debut "Illmatic."

The film's title is an undeniable nod to Nas's critically acclaimed debut album, "Illmatic," which was released in 1994, at the height of the East Coast's contribution to the golden age of hip hop. Nas: Time Is Illmatic is not just about the music; it delves deeper, portraying a tapestry of facets not just from Nas's life but also shedding light on the societal framework that bred music of this kind.

The film starts by painting a picture of Nas's early life in the Queensbridge Housing Projects in Queens, New York, a locale that was a hotbed for drugs, violence, and poverty during the 1980s. This environment became a nucleus for creativity and inspiration for Nas, and his experiences become vivid lyrical narratives in his music. Using archived footage and firsthand accounts, the documentary beautifully recreates the atmosphere and texture of the hip-hop scene during a time that was intensely volatile, yet exceedingly influential in shaping the dynamic art form.

Delving into Nas's family life, the documentary highlights his father, Olu Dara, a respected jazz artist, who is shown to have played a crucial role in fostering Nas's talent from an early age. This crucial understanding of music and a nurturing environment allowed Nas to create and structure his songs, reflecting his remarkable storytelling ability, which would later become his emblematic style.

Throughout the film, the audience will encounter testimonies from important figures in Nas's life, including his brother Jabari "Jungle" Jones, and famous musicians including Q-Tip and Alicia Keys. These testimonies work in unison to construct a multi-faceted image of Nas as an individual, beyond his persona as a renowned rapper.

While it may be a bit presumptuous to call this film a "Behind the Music," Nas: Time Is Illmatic indeed pulls apart the layers of the album's creation. The film also studies the profound impact of the record, which proved to be a cornerstone moment not just in Nas's career but was also instrumental in pushing the boundaries of hip-hop music. The title itself, a combination of the words "Time is Money" and "Life is Ill," echoed sentiments felt in urban areas nationwide and touched the pulse and psyche of young listeners navigating through similar realities.

With its impressive collection of interviews, nostalgic archive footage, and expressive narration, Nas: Time Is Illmatic gives a respectful tribute to Nas's artistry and his album "Illmatic" - a literary work that managed to articulate the experience of growing up in America's public housing developments with realism, depth, and rawness. The film also splinters off to examine not only Nas's evolution as an artist but also the testing dynamics of social issues, echoing his heartfelt narration of street life in America.

Above all, Nas: Time Is Illmatic is at its heart, a documentary that adores Nas's music, specifically the album, "Illmatic." There is an undeniable feeling of reverence in the film’s lens, reflecting Nas's artistry, his impact, and legacy in the world of hip hop, and validating "Illmatic" as an album that captured the spirit of a generation.

In summary, the film Nas: Time is Illmatic is a riveting celebration of the power of music to speak for an era, define a culture, and chronicle the struggles and triumphs of the human experience. Whether you are a fan of Nas, a lover of hip hop, or an individual interested in resilient stories of human perseverance and creativity emerging from adversity, this film provides a glimpse into an essential era of cultural history.