This poignant rites-of-passage tale set on the streets of South Central LA where random violence is a way of life signalled a remarkable breakthrough for director John Singleton. Utilising a fine cast including Ice Cube, Laurence Fishburne and Angela Bassett, it helped kick start a new wave of films by black American directors looking to document black culture and the black experience on screen. Sadly, recent events render the film as urgent and prescient as ever.
Part of the BFI Black Star season, taking place UK-wide, supported by Film Hub North West Central, part of the Film Audience Network, awarding funds from the National Lottery.
bfi.org.uk/blackstar