Planet Bboy Review
June 20th 2007 07:52
Tuesday night, 19th June 2007. George St Cinemas, Sydney.
My b-boyfriend had raved on about this film and watched it a second time with me, spoiling some of the plot and humorous moments. Bastard.
But it's understandable, when you see a documentary that really speaks out to you, that you can relate to so closely you can claim it's the story of your life (without the subtitles).
This film wasn't made for the bboys, it was targeted at the 'mainstream' audience to give them a better understanding, and hopefully appreciation for this particular element of the Hip Hop culture. The reiteration throughout the movie that Hip Hop is a culture, is a form of expression for anyone who chooses to use this outlet, was refreshening; director Benson Lee's debut documentary explores the bboy way of life, and takes a look at how those close to them react to this unconventional path.
From the ongoing media exploitation of "breakdancing" and the lack of recognition and respect that bboys receive, Lee's honest insight into this generally misconceived world is inspiring, funny at times, and all real.
What makes this Hip Hop documentary unique is its broad, inter-cultural reach, following the journeys of five bboy crews - Knucklehead Zoo (USA), Ichigeki (Japan), Phase T (France), Gamblerz and Last For One (Korea) and their struggle to be the Battle of the Year 2005 Champions. Note: Lee had chosen 4 teams who by chance all made it to the top 4 (there were some obvious choices though).
I absolutely love and appreciate this film, director Benson Lee's intentions, passion and endurance and believe that this film will be one of great significance in the history of Bboying and Hip Hop. Please show your support and sign the petition to bring the film back to Sydney, as currently they don't have distribution rights for the film. If I had money to invest, most of it would go into this film. So come on, sign up to the mailing list/petition HERE.
P.S. To Katsu (Ichigeki), I want to have your baby.
After the first screening at the Sydney Film Festival last Sunday 17th June, the after party - 'Break Out' was held across the road (The Metro) where the local bboys jammed and supporters... well they supported. Here's some footage for those (like myself) who missed out. Oh and mr b-boyfriend is the first and last bboy in this clip. There's more footage from the night HERE.
Planet Bboy Trailer
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Comment by Drumstick
Comment by Trina
Hiphop
Confessions of a Serial Dancer
Competitions
Clubbing
Comment by JohnDoe
Film & TV on DVD
Ive heard good things from the underground (My friends) about this film.
I love insightful documentaries and have my hip hop moments I grew up with movies like Beat Street and Breakdance....plus used to pop and lock a little back in my "being a goose" stage. (I wasn't very good, but enjoyed it alot) so I look forward to checking this out.
Great review, love your style of writing.
Comment by Trina
Hiphop
Confessions of a Serial Dancer
Competitions
Clubbing