Fear of A Black Hat

Directed by: Rusty Cundieff

RS: 3of 4 Stars

1994 Comedy

Envisioned as a rap This Is Spinal Tap, 1994's mockumentary about Niggaz With Hats remains the best hip-hop film of all, taking on obvious targets (misogynist lyrics) and sacred cows (political rap) alike. For N.W.H. leader Ice Cold, played by director-screenwriter Rusty Cundieff, everything is a metaphor. Defending the song "Booty Juice," he digs deep: "On the political tip, all we saying is... we gonna get that ass." The DVD includes commentary from Cundieff, who seems perennially amused at his youthful impudence.

JON CARMANICA
(July 16, 2003)