I’m not a 50 Cent fan, but I was curious about this project and how he would do. At first, I thought this was a biopic, but after watching some of the extra features I understand this is an original storyline and some of 50’s life events were worked into the movie. I thought he looked good on screen, and he was surrounded by a good cast and high production value, but . . .
This movie needed some editing. It felt reeeeally long. Many scenes could have been whittled down or even eliminated. Also, 50 provided narration for parts of the movie and, for me, that diluted the feel of authenticity. His performance, while not the worst given by a musician-turned-actor, lacked spark. There were several intense scenes in the movie, but I didn’t get a real sense of urgency from him. He was shown to be more animated in the behind the scenes documentary. If he had brought some of that energy to the movie it would have elevated his performance.
The movie could have been a decent gangster movie without the rap tie-in. 50 Cent could still have been the star. As it is, the segue from street hustle to rapper was awkward and over simplified. Perhaps more foreshadowing and inclusion of hip-hop activities throughout the movie would have made the ending more believable. I thought it was funny that one early scene featuring a “young” 50 Cent, had the character taping a picture of Rick James on his bedroom mirror. I didn’t realize Rick was a big influence for rappers!
Fans of 50 Cent will probably enjoy the movie. At the same time, I doubt the movie will make him many new fans. Regardless, kudos to him for going for it. After all, he’s going to get rich, or die trying!