11/12/2003

in

Matthew Braine

Lauren Lazin brings rap legend, Tupac Amaru Shakur's, life story to screen in the movie, "Tupac: Resurrection." The movie, which is executive produced by Tupac's mother, Afeni Shakur, tells the story of the rapper's life through many interviews by Tupac himself. The film is strictly Tupac the whole time. No record executives, no next door neighbors, no talking heads.  
  
The movie spans through Tupac's life starting from being raised by Black Panther parents during his high school years as a performing arts student. Eventually, the east-versus-west battle come up along with his relationship with Death Row Records CEO, Suge Knight. His sex abuse case, time in prison, and assassination attempt are also addressed. The story culminates in his 1996 "drive-by" shooting murder.  
  
Tupac is portrayed in a very intelligent and insightful light throughout the movie.  
  
His music, poetry, and philosophy are at focus. The film will try to give insight to all of his fans and even his critics about what he was about and what is his message.  
  
Lazin, who is also behind MTV's "Sex in the '90s," "Rockumentary" and "Cribs," spent two years gathering footage, photos, journals and a diary in preparation for production. Much of the material was contributed by MTV, BET, CBS News, and personal collectors. The collage of over 40 interviews in Tupac's story come from mediums ranging from radio to print to TV. Lazin is the first person to successfully gain support from Afeni, but not the first to make a Tupac documentary. Yet, she will probably be the most successful one considering "Tupac: Resurrection" will open on over 800 screens nationwide on November 14th. It was presented at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and generated good responses.  
  
MTV plans to release a soundtrack and book to go along with the movie, soon. The events in Tupac's life have already produced Pultizer Prizes, entire books and documentaries. "Tupac: Resurrection" is sure to answer many questions and maybe even create new ones about the rap legends.