We Are Freestyle Love Supreme

We Are Freestyle Love Supreme is an engaging, inspiring, and uplifting 2020 American documentary film that captures a saga about the power of art, the endurance of bonds, and the transformative effect of shared creativity. Directed by Andrew Fried, and featuring a talented ensemble consisting of Utkarsh Ambudkar, Andrew Bancroft, and James Monroe Iglehart among others, the film provides an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the revered improvisational hip hop group known as Freestyle Love Supreme, that included the early beginnings of the award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda of Hamilton fame.

Produced by Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, We Are Freestyle Love Supreme charts the group's development over the long span of almost two decades, from their humble beginnings into becoming a critically-acclaimed success. The film illuminates the inspiring passion for music, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit that propelled the group to create and perform a unique fusion of hip-hop, improv, and spoken word poetry.

The film, utilizing a blend of archival footage, present-day interviews, and performance clips, delves into the origin story of the celebrated performance group. The story is told via the voices of the members themselves, including Utkarsh Ambudkar, Andrew Bancroft, and James Monroe Iglehart, giving audiences unique insights into their creative process, love for music, and strong bond. The documentary captures their vast creativity, flows of ingenuity, and constant desire to bring innovation and unconventional sounds to the table.

The documentary not only maps out the group's compelling trajectory, but it also resonates deeply on a human level. It delves into the intricate, personal narratives of each of the members of Freestyle Love Supreme, recounting how their personal journeys have affected their collective evolution. Utkarsh Ambudkar, with his unmatched beatboxing skills, Andrew Bancroft, identified for his freestyling expertise, and James Monroe Iglehart, Tony Award-winning actor, bring depth, character, and authenticity to the film, reflecting on their shared experiences, highs and lows, with sincerity and humor.

In its pacing and narrative structure, We Are Freestyle Love Supreme strays away from traditional documentary storytelling. Rather than focusing on a linear recounting of events, it offers a fluid, immersive experience that feels more like a jam session. The documentary thrives on spontaneity, mirroring the unscripted nature of the group’s own performances. It reflects the energy, passion, and joy that the members derive from their art, and the immense love that they share not just among themselves, but with their audiences.

We Are Freestyle Love Supreme elucidates what it means to be an artist and a performer, and the challenges that must be overcome to sustain a successful career in the intense world of performing arts. Behind the humor, the catchy rhythms, and the electrifying performances, the documentary peels back layers to reveal stories of resilience, growth, and friendship. The film underlines their shared drive for their craft, and demonstrates how this collective synergy has served as the beating heart of their success over the years.

In addition, the film also serves as an homage to the power of freestyle. The documentary patiently explores how freestyle rap is a powerful expression of the cultural mosaic of America, an unfiltered reflector of modern social issues, and a cathartic expression of creative freedom. The members share their struggles with imposter syndrome, the haunting fear of running out of fresh content, and their experiences with the unpredictable world of improvisation.

From its origins on the streets of New York City to its triumphant Broadway finale, We Are Freestyle Love Supreme serves as a demonstration of the will, talent, and heart required to translate raw passion into a worldwide artistic phenomenon. It’s an encouraging testament to the transformative power of art, the resilience of artists, and the liberating magic of improvisation.

Funny, heartwarming, and introspective, We Are Freestyle Love Supreme is a must-see for not just fans of hip-hop and Broadway, but for anyone who appreciates the alchemy of creativity, friendship, and sheer determination. It's an optimistic, inspiring love letter to the power of performance, and to the group itself – their talents, bond, perseverance, and their unwavering love for what they do. This film is a tribute to their legacy, and a reminder to all aspiring artists everywhere - the struggle may be real, but so is the love, joy, and fulfillment that comes with creating something from the heart.