Hollywood's penchant for pushing boundaries and attempting to convince itself and the world of its edginess has been a recurring theme throughout its history. One such instance was the 78th Academy Awards, where the Oscar for Best Original Song was awarded to the provocative "It's Hard Out There for a Pimp." This song, part of the soundtrack for the 2005 film Hustle & Flow," written and directed by Craig Brewer, had lyrics and title featuring a profession that whose very mention had been not that long ago considered taboo for public television.
Set in Memphis, Tennessee, the plot follows protagonist Djay (played by Terrence Howard), a struggling pimp who seeks to make a living by managing three prostitutes – Nola (played by Taryn Manning), Shug (played by Taraji P. Henson), and Lexus (played by Paula J. Parker). Tired of his current lifestyle, Djay dreams of a career as a rap artist. With the help of his friend Key (played by Anthony Anderson), who runs a recording studio, and his technician Shelby (played by D.J. Squalls), Djay records a number of songs inspired by his harsh life on the streets, utilising his girls as backup singers. The arrival of Skinny Black (played by Ludacris), a well-established rapper, in Djay's old neighbourhood presents an opportunity for him to pitch his demo tape. However, Djay's plans don't unfold as expected.
At first glance, Hustle & Flow appears to be a typical Hollywood rags-to-riches story celebrating the American Dream or the theoretical possibility for individuals to rise from the social bottom through success in the entertainment industry. The film's uniqueness lies in its protagonist, who is a pimp, and its setting in Memphis, Tennessee, and its rap scene, which features a particularly Southern flavour.
What sets this film apart is its darker tone compared to similar stories. Djay’s actions are both questionable and less acceptable from today's standards of treating women. The film's finale also discards the conventional happy ending in favor of a more realistic, yet not completely bleak, resolution.
The film's greatest asset is its music, including the Oscar-winning song, but the cast is equally impressive. Terrence Howard, one of the most intriguing African American actors of his time, delivers a complex performance, while the rest of the cast, including Taraji P. Henson as Djay's pregnant girlfriend, also shine. Same can be said of Taryn Manning in the role of youngest and most prized of all of Djay’s prostitutes.
Although not perfect, mostly on the account of slightly slow pace, Hustle & Flow is a very good film that provides insight into a brief period when similar content was no longer considered edgy but hadn't yet begun to challenge the orthodoxies of "political correctness”.
RATING: 7/10 (+++)
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