If one were to make a documentary that could rival Hollywood's live-action blockbusters at the box office, having a subject that is not only relevant and intriguing but also larger-than-life would undoubtedly be an advantage. This is precisely the impression that Tupac: Resurrection conveys, as it delves into the life and legacy of Tupac Shakur, the rap artist and actor whose meteoric rise to fame in the 1990s left an indelible mark on US popular culture. His untimely and violent demise only served to cement his legend, and it is this larger-than-life persona that director Lauren Lazin expertly captures in this documentary.
One of the key techniques employed by Lazin is the use of audio and video recordings of Tupac himself, which he gave throughout his career. This treasure trove of material allowed Lazin to skillfully craft a narrative that not only tells the story of Tupac's life but also creates the illusion that he is telling his own story, thereby resurrecting him in a sense. This approach, which would later be used in the documentary Listen to Me Marlon, is both the film's greatest strength and weakness.
On one hand, it creates a powerful impression of Tupac as a multi-dimensional individual, an incredibly talented person who grew up in poverty and was involved in Black Panther politics through his family. His career began as a regular performer, but he gradually discovered and built an image of a gangsta rapper, employing his self-styled philosophy of Thug Life. This portrayal is undeniably compelling and paints a vivid picture of Tupac's life and career.
However, this approach also dispenses with objectivity, which is somewhat unsurprising given that Tupac's mother, Afeni Shakur, was an executive producer on the film. The documentary leans heavily on Shakur's own words and images, which can leave the viewer with a skewed perspective. Furthermore, it leaves many blanks, including details about his still unsolved murder, relying on the audience's pre-existing knowledge and connection to Tupac as a fan to fill in the gaps. This lack of context may leave some viewers, especially younger ones, feeling unsatisfied and demanding a more conventional approach.
Despite these shortcomings, Tupac: Resurrection nevertheless deserves recommendation as a powerful and imaginative tribute to one of the greatest and most tragic icons of late 20th Century popular culture. It is a film that will undoubtedly resonate with fans of Tupac and provide a fascinating insight into the life and legacy of this larger-than-life figure.
RATING: 6/10 (++)
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