Rize

Rize, directed by acclaimed photographer David LaChapelle, is a riveting documentary that focuses on a hyperkinetic dance style named "krumping" that emerged from the tensions, struggles, and dreams of the marginalized communities of South Central Los Angeles. The film was released in 2005 and primarily features Tommy the Clown, born Thomas Johnson, along with other notable personalities such as Larry Berry and Dragon, who have made significant contributions to the krumping subculture.

The documentary unfolds the evolution of krumping, tracing it from its grassroots beginnings to its current status as an influential urban dance form. The dance style's roots are embedded in the fascinating life and journey of Tommy the Clown, who transformed from a drug dealer and convict to a celebrated local hero. His turned-around life serves as a beacon of hope for the youngsters around him, demonstrating the power of dance as a vehicle for expressing raw emotions, displacing social frustrations, and disrupting the vicious cycle of violence and despair that ensnails their lives.

As a vibrant form of self-expression, krumping emerges as a radical alternative to the street-gang culture. Young men and women, stifled by their everyday realities of poverty, violence, and socio-economic despair, find release and challenge the status quo through this aggressive, fast-paced dance form. Krumping becomes an avenue for them to pour their anguish, frustration, and persistence into a physical art form that is both cathartic and transformative.

The film is appreciably unbiased in its narrative, capturing the vibrantly expressive dance battles as well as the somber realities and narratives of the krumpers. As such, Rize is not just a testament to the indomitable spirit of a dance form, but also to its practitioners who, through resilience and creativity, embrace the dance as a means of escape, expression, and ultimately, freedom from their disheartening surroundings.

The striking visual aesthetics of Rize is a crucial aspect of its overall narrative. LaChapelle, known for his flashy and surreal photographic style, has used his unique visual capabilities to transform the celluloid into a canvas pulsating with the raw energy of krumping. The frenetic dance battles, filmed with hyperactive cameras that virtually dance along with the dancers, provide the viewers with an all-encompassing sensory experience reflecting the essence of krumping.

The documentary also highlights the "Clowning" movement initiated by Tommy the Clown. This movement, often considered a precursor to krumping, involves a blend of hip-hop dance styles and mime performances - all presented with a dash of humor. Clowning evolves into an important tool used by Tommy and his followers to entertain at parties or community events while indirectly promoting a message of peace and unity amidst the turbulent community dynamics.

The performances in Rize are as gripping as its narrative. Tommy the Clown delivers a stellar performance, portraying his complex personality with authenticity. He artistically uses his life story to foster a dance movement and change the lives of numerous youngsters. Similarly, performances from Larry Berry and Dragon stand out, as they embody the soul and rhythm of the streets, manifesting the disruptive energy of krumping into riveting performances.

Rize stands as a compelling representation of an underground dance movement that is unique, transformative, and socially significant. The film captures the raw energy and profound narratives of krumping and clowing, showcasing an awe-inspiring explosion of creativity born out of dire circumstances. By delving deep into this vibrant subculture, Rize presents an alternative image of South Central Los Angeles, one that defies the stereotype of gang violence and despair, instead shining a light on a powerful artistic movement that speaks volumes about resilience, hope, and the spontaneous combustion of human spirit.