Movie “Dope” by Rick Famuyiwa Review Essay Example

possess interests that differentiate them from their peers. These interests include a love for 90s hip hop, engaging in activities like skateboarding and performing music, and having an affinity for high-top fades. The kids strongly dislike bullies and other residents who display skeptical behaviors towards both the "cool kids" and visitors.

Additionally, they hold a distinctive perspective from the rest of the locals. Specifically, Malcolm perceives himself as a hero with unique abilities. Initially, Malcolm assists a drug dealer named Dom (A$AP Rocky) in connecting with Nakia for a minor drug transaction. However, this decision ultimately has negative consequences for Malcolm and his friends, jeopardizing their safety and tranquility in the neighborhood depicted in Dope (Culbertson p. 6).

This decision functions as a means of controlling their life and freedom within their home area. In The Bottoms, Malcolm excels academically and stands out among his peers. It appears that Malcolm is motivated by his aspiration to attend Harvard University, a goal he has diligently worked towards throughout high school (Beck p. 92).

However, Malcolm's behavior portrays him as arrogant. For example, he declines an essay from a teacher because he believes he is intelligent enough to be tested regularly. Associating with Dom makes Malcolm feel superior and exceptional, believing he can successfully execute any transaction. Hence, he associates recklessness with a gangster. Additionally, Malcolm is observed entering clubs without an ID (Belton, 2015). Simultaneously, he participates in potentially dangerous deals where getting shot is a risk.

His behavior demonstrates how individuals make poor choices by believing they are superior and more capable than others in society. However, the initial deal goes awry as police attacks put Malcolm's life in

danger, resulting in multiple people being shot and Malcolm and Nakia getting arrested. Despite the violence and confusion of the first deal with Nakia, Malcolm remains confident and able to establish connections with drug dealers fearlessly (Culbertson p. 3). This instance illustrates how the society, through apathetic individuals, gangsters, and other unconventional and eccentric kids, influences underprivileged youth into making detrimental decisions that ultimately control their lives. Initially, the residents of Dope appear to be adversaries to Malcolm, Jib, and Diggy (Belton, 2015).

Malcolm initially distances himself from them, but he eventually agrees to accompany them on a drug deal. As time passes, Malcolm adopts gangster traits and begins disregarding his teachers' requests. Additionally, he starts carrying a gun and a cellphone in his backpack, which is uncharacteristic of how he used to behave as a student (Beck p. 92).

Society's influence has exerted control over him, altering his approach to life. Additionally, Malcolm is conflicted between his current actions and his original intentions and goals. At first, Malcolm and his friends encounter numerous experiences and adventures in their neighborhood. This includes a harsh local environment where the residents steal their belongings, such as shoes. Gangsters like Dom and Nakia, poverty, unfriendly public schools, and drug addiction further endanger the lives of these kids who must navigate the streets as part of their high school missions. Consequently, Malcolm and his friends decide to adopt a lifestyle that allows them to blend in with the residents without standing out as unique.

Despite this, Malcolm chooses to differentiate himself by demonstrating his skill in successfully completing additional transactions, even while still a student. However, his primary objective remains ensuring his

survival within the hostile community portrayed in the film "Dope". As a result, he becomes involved in drug trade, attending parties and clubs, and even bringing weapons and a cellphone to school (Belton, 2015). By doing so, Malcolm manages to establish himself as one of the influential figures in his neighborhood. However, the influence and addictive nature of the drug trade depicted in "Dope" prove to be overwhelming.

Malcolm is unable to escape his circumstances and finds himself heavily involved in the activities of the neighborhood. Despite his previous determination to avoid becoming a drug dealer or succumbing to the influence of drugs, Malcolm feels compelled to join the community in order to survive and fit in. He alters his way of life and behavior in order to navigate the racial and dangerous environment he encounters at Dope (Culbertson p. 4).

The streets and neighborhood present a difficulty for young individuals, as they possess the ability to influence their conduct and prospects. Initially, Malcolm desired to strive and enroll in Harvard University. In order to excel in high school, he needed to familiarize himself with the streets, his acquaintances, and other significant figures (Beck p. 92). Regrettably, this led to a modification in his behavior that entangled him in drug transactions.

Belton (2015) states that in the movie Dope, director Famuyiwa depicts Malcolm's actions as a reflection of the influences from inner Los Angeles society. At first, this behavior was not part of Malcolm's plans and was associated with youthful vices. However, he is compelled to adopt it in order to survive as a student and as a black individual. Regrettably, the addictive nature of the drug Dope

hinders his ability to change his ways. Moreover, Malcolm finds himself engaging in unlawful activities such as arrests and violence along with his gangster companions.

Conclusion

The film Dope, directed by Famuyiwa, serves as a portrayal of life in the less fortunate areas of the city. These regions are plagued by poverty, racism, drug activity, and a high incidence of social crimes. For young individuals, particularly those in high school, this environment presents a threat of succumbing to negative influences and becoming involved in criminal behavior, substance abuse, racism, and gang affiliations. Malcolm and his friends Jib and Diggy find themselves on the brink of being swayed by these detrimental behaviors during their time in high school.

Malcolm participates in various activities alongside the gang members like Dom and Nakia. However, the underlying truth that motivates Malcolm's behavior is his involvement in the hood to ensure his survival in society. Unfortunately, the influence and addictive nature of the Dope lifestyle affect not only Malcolm's life but also that of his friends.

Works Cited

1. Beck, Bernard. "The Emigrants: Straight Outta Compton, Dope, and Emerging from the Ghetto." Multicultural Perspectives 18.2 (2016): 91-94.
2. Belton, Danielle C. Movie Review: Dope is Actually Pretty Dope (2015)www.theroot.com/articles/culture/2015/06/_dope_the_movie_is_actually_dope/2/
3. Culbertson, Carolyn, and James Stewart. "New questions raised as flag is lowered." (2015): 1-11.