Hustle & Flow

Terrence Howard makes an indelible mark as Djay, a low down Memphis pimp and drug dealer making a last ditch effort to turn his life around with rap music, is steeped in American values of redemption and ambition. Writer/director Craig Brewer crafts a multi-faceted drama that identifies subtle areas of American existence that are rarely exposed in the media or Hollywood films. Brewer does so with such a highly developed sense of detail and loving regard for his characters that the film lifts the audience in a deeply emotional yet unsentimental way. The gritty raps that Djay writes and records are unexpectedly catchy and stay with you long after the movie is over. "You know it's hard out here for a pimp, when he's gotta get the money for the rent." It might not sound like much on paper, but the song really moves. "Hustle & Flow" is a perfect example of an American independent film that boldly embraces its rarefied subject and squeezes out sparks from every scene and every line of subtext-rich dialogue. Special features include commentary by Craig Brewer, four engrossing featurettes and 6 television promo spots. Aspect ratio is 16:9 widescreen, with sound quality processed in choice of Dolby Digital 5.1 or 2.0 Surround. (Movie - Five Stars, DVD features - Four Stars) Rated R, 115 mins. (Paramount)