Many will view “Tupac: Resurrection” as a film
intended only for the late rap star’s friends. In truth, the
film has a surprisingly universal appeal. One does not have to know
what it is like to grow up on the streets of New York, Baltimore or
Los Angeles to appreciate Tupac’s message. Even those who
would run at the sight of Suge Knight — the enormous
four-time felon and CEO of Death Row Records — should find
enjoyment in “Resurrection.”

The documentary-style film covers Shakur’s life in such
detail that anyone can become an expert on the Machiavelli.
“Resurrection” is pieced together from interviews, news
footage and videos of Shakur. The narration comes from interviews
and comments made by Tupac, making it seem as if Shakur is directly
telling the audience his life story. Incredibly, the narration fits
the film perfectly, as if Tupac recorded it specifically for the
film.

The former rap and film star’s life makes for good
entertainment. His rapid rise to stardom is incredible to behold,
but this documentary is more than a “Behind the Music”
chronicle of a star’s rise. Tupac was surprisingly well-read,
and had a strong understanding of the world around him.

“Resurrection” shows how this knowledge allowed
Tupac not only to reach a diverse audience but also to create
meaningful, sometimes profound lyrics. Because the film is
essentially narrated by Tupac, it gives the audience a first-hand
lesson in his philosophy on poverty, racism and the plight of
inner-city blacks. His views are both fascinating and enlightening.
At a school where a class in “Race and Ethnicity” is a
requirement, “Resurrection” should be mandatory course
material.

With a run-time of almost two hours, “Resurrection”
can seem a bit cumbersome. At times the movie seems to drag a bit,
especially as Tupac’s life becomes troubled. The first-person
style narration invests the viewer in Tupac’s life; one wants
to see him succeed and flourish. This makes watching his occasional
brushes with the law and his feuds with other rappers disconcerting
for the viewer.

This, however, is a film that should push the viewer out of his
comfort zone. It should challenge one’s ideas of both society
and Tupac himself. “Resurrection” accomplishes this by
openly and objectively exploring Shakur’s life.

Rating: 4 stars.