With a new Men In Black film coming out soon, its only right that I list my other favorite films by the Fresh Prince, better known these days as Will Smith. Smith has been one of my favorite actors since Bad Boys. He was funny on Fresh Prince of Bel Air but I really didn’t consider him an actor then, more like a caricature; though he did have some profound moments like the episode about his biological father not being in his life. With that said, he “grew into” himself and really excelled with his acting, moving on to put out some quality films. Here are my top 5 favorites of his flicks.

I Am Legend

I think it takes a great actor to hold down a movie (for the most part) by himself. In I Am Legend Smith embraces and embodies his character to the point where at times you actually forget it’s a movie! I found myself analyzing the situation as if I was in his shoes – playing out scenarios to see what I would do to survive a similar event. Great films make you think, and I think he delivered his best work with this one. The scene where he had to kill his dog after she was bitten by other virus-infected dogs showed enormous pain without him having to say a word. Where he had to reach within himself to pull out those tears and emotion must have been a dark place.

Enemy of the State

Enemy of the State is a dope all around movie. Conspiracy, murder, surveillance, survival, action, humor and great execution is what makes this Smith’s second best. With an all-star cast to support him (Gene Hackman, Jon Voight), Smith does well at playing a clueless father- husband and attorney at the wrong place at the wrong time. Once he is the target, its entertaining watching him escape by the hairs on his head from the villains.

Bad Boys

Martin Lawrence and Will Smith, what more can you about this movie? Just these names alone in the same sentence make you laugh and think about your favorite scenes from this film. The chemistry between the two funny-men was on point, enough to make this movie great both on the comedic level and action level.

Men In Black

Any movie that I can watch anytime it’s shown on FX or TBS to me is a favorite, and Men in Black is one of those movies. I don’t know if these networks bought the rights to the movie or what but it seems like it’s always on television when nothing else is on – but it never gets old. I can’t wait to the see the new one. Hopefully it tops the other two and they leave it there, with just three.

The Pursuit of Happyness

It was tough picking my 5th favorite as some of the honorable mentions below are just as good. With that said I had to go with The Pursuit of Happyness over Seven Pounds. Though Seven Pounds was unique in its own right and something a little different for Smith’s portfolio, I really found the movie depressing. I know all movies can’t have happy endings, but Seven Pounds just didn’t jump at me as something I would watch multiple times. Despite having a good story, it just wasn’t my cup of tea. The Pursuit of Happyness on the other hand was good from the aspect of motivating the audience to keep pushing and striving. I like stories like these – and because it was based off true events made me like it even more. Furthermore, acting alongside your son without it coming across corny or elitist was also an added bonus.

Honorable Mentions

I, Robot
Seven Pounds
Men in Black II
Six Degrees of Separation

I was recently sharing my discography with someone and when I mentioned my album “Free Spirit of a Troubled Soul” the person I was talking to responded “Wow, that’s a long album title, I remember the days when the names of albums were just one or two words.” This inspired me to do a little research to see how many albums I could find that had even longer titles. Here is just some of what I found in my own collection and online:

It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back

Topping the list with a ten-word album title is Public Enemy’s “It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back.” This is the second album they released in 1988 on Def Jam. The most popular track from the album being Don’t Believe The Hype. No matter what they release “Fight The Power” will always be my favorite!  

The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech…Just Watch What You Say

In second is Ice-T’s “The Iceberg/Freedom of Speech…Just Watch What You Say” that was released in 1989. I never heard any of this release but plan on checking it out. According to Wikipedia it has “an uncharacteristically gritty sound, featuring some of the darkest musical scores Ice-T has ever released.” That’s all I needed to read to pick this joint up.

Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not to Be Told

Another work I have to add to my collection is “Da Game Is to Be Sold, Not to Be Told.” This is the third album by Snoop Dogg, his first for No Limit Records. I have yet to hear this album, probably because I was puzzled by the label switch..not the switch in general, the label pick. Snoop and No Limit just didnt sound like a happy union to me.

People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm

“People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm” is the debut album by one if not my favorite hip hop groups A Tribe Called Quest. Released in April of 1990, my favorite track would have to be probably the most memorable one as well, Bonita Applebum.

The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory

Damn, what can be said about the Makaveli album that hasnt already been stated… a dope work by one of the most influential hip-hop artists of all time. I remember sitting in the parking lot of a Burger King about to eat lunch when I heard the news on the radio about Pac’s death. RIP

The Last of a Dying Breed

Scarface has always been one of my favorite artists/producers. He has a distinctive voice and flow and crafts great beats. “The Last of a Dying Breed” is his sixth solo album.

On the Outside Looking In

I don’t actually own this album…yet, but in conducting my research I noticed that it did pretty well when it was released. The title of this work is not as long as the others – but still relatively long. “On the Outside Looking In” is the 1994 album by Eightball & MJG released on Suave House Records.

Mama Said Knock You Out

Mama Said Knock You Out is the fourth album by hip-hop artist LL Cool J. According to Wikipedia, this album “was released in 1990, after the critically disappointing Walking with a Panther in 1989.” Damn critically…? My favorite joints from this work is Around The Way Girl and The Boomin’ System.

Please Hammer, Don’t Hurt ‘Em

Dudes can front on Hammer now if they want, but in the early 90s most of these cats talking foul about him now wanted to be him. “Please Hammer, Don’t Hurt ‘Em” is the third and most popular that he released.

Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik

I remember when Outkast first came out, their sound was distinctive and they represented the future of southern hip-hop music. I was inspired and felt proud to rock their joints on the bus to school. The title of this album is not long in words, but long because of its unique spelling.

It seems everyone loves lists, even myself at times. Back in August of 2010 I made my preliminary “best movies of 2010” list in which I grouped with a brief Inception review. Here is a more finalized list of what I feel are the best movies of 2010 that I was able to see (still got a few to check out):

1. Inception

Inception still sits at the top for the year for me – those who didnt understand the film said it wasnt that good. Its great, period – watch it again.

2. The Town

I just caught The Town a few nights ago;  I’m glad I did. This is by far one of the best films in the past decade, second best of the year.

3. Toy Story 3

Normally I am quick to say that most sequels and third parts to movies suck. Toy Story 3 is just as good as the first.

4. Repo Men

The concept alone was great and the execution was even better. The final scenes are horriffically good. Forest Whitaker is nuts in this film. I have to see the original.

5. Book of Eli

Been a fan of Denzel since the days of my youth so more than likely my biasness is what put Book of Eli here. In my review of the film, I stated that more could have been done with it to take it from good to great, but you be the judge. Great message, questionable execution.

6. The Karate Kid

Though a bit long for my taste, exciting film that does the original justice.

7. (Reserved for possibly The Fighter)

Ive been reading a lot of great stuff about Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale in The Fighter. Im reserving this #7 spot for this flick  as I think it might fit.

8. The Losers

Good movie with gun fights, humor and eye candy, what more do you want.

9. Despicable Me

Unique film and characters, good story, dope score by Pharrell.

10. Shrek Forever After

They made up for that weak third part to the series.

Noteworthy:

Shutter Island

The A Team

Brooklyn’s Finest

Takers

The Crazies

Skyline (good until the corny ending)

Letdowns:

Legion

Wolfman

Death at a Funeral

Predators

Red

Resident Evil 4

Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

Though some films that are marketed as “based on a true story” or “inspired by true events” may have many inaccuracies, there are some that are really good. With that said, here are my top 10 favorite movies that are based on true events:

Malcolm X

Malcolm X is my all time favorite movie based on the life of one of my heroes; despite it being 3 hours long, I can watch it anytime it airs.

Favorite scene: When Malcolm has full command of his Muslim troops at the hospital, injecting much fear in the hearts of the cops without even trying.

300

Though heavily fictionalized and super-hero/comic-book-like, 300  is based on an actual battle and the movie is sick from start to finish – visually and conceptually impressive.

Favorite scene: Any fight scene and also when Leonidas casts his spear and damn near splits Xerxes in two. Look at the fear in Xerxes face after it happens, he sh*t hisself.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kuna7sC5ek

Rosewood

Though I get enraged when I watch this movie, it’s still a great story of survival and resilience.

Favorite scene: When Ving Rhame’s character attends the auction with a stack and out-bids the others to gain some property in the town.

Ray

There is no doubt that Jamie Foxx deserves his Oscar award for this portrayal of the legendary composer/singer. The fact that he actually had his eyes taped shut to embrace what it feels like to be blind is inspiring. True actors dive into roles like this. Ray doesn’t have a dull moment.

Favorite scene: When Ray Charles demands his masters and a heavy publishing percentage. Make it do what it do! Own your masters!

The Last King of Scotland

Just as Jamie Foxx in Ray, Forest Whitaker embodied the villain warlord Idi Amin. Charismatic with a smile but would kill you at the drop of a dime. The Last King of Scotland is Whitaker’s best work, much deserved Oscar.

Favorite Scene: Sex scene with Kerry Washington and another scene where Amin complains of chest pains and it turns out to be gas. In a movie with so much death, sex and humor found its way into the film – briefly.

City of God

1960’s hood life in Rio De Janeiro Brazil – kids did everything at an early age, smoked, robbed, killed. Don’t get caught walking in their neighborhood, day or night. One of the dopest films ever.

Favorite Scene: Any with Alice Braga!

Goodfellas

Life in the mob as described by once gangster turned FBI informant. Suits, guns, drugs, women and more, what more could you want from a mob flick? One of Scorsese’s best.

Favorite scene: Any scene with Joe Pesci, he was a ruthless animal in this film.

Braveheart

Before Mel Gibson had baby mama drama and racial issues he was making classic films like this – warrior flick to the fullest.

Favorite scene: Even with his balls chopped off William Wallace still cries freedom!!

Paid In Full

I watched Paid in Full the first time not knowing it was anywhere close to or inspired by a true story. So when I ended up enjoying the film, it was because of its execution alone. Then when I saw documentaries and heard stories about the real people who were portrayed thereafter, I enjoyed it even more. Wood Harris does an excellent job portraying the average joe who (kind of) fell into the drug life.

Favorite scene: Mekki Phifer’s scene inside the car when he begins to cry about his little brother being kidnapped. His tears and the entire dialogue seems natural, believable.

Saving Private Ryan

I talked to a Vietnam veteran recently and I asked him what movie about a war is the most accurate, he told me with no hesitation “none.” Regardless, Saving Private Ryan is one of my favorite movies based on real events. Not sure why, maybe it’s the feeling I get in my gut when they have to tell this dude that all of his brother’s are dead and instead of quitting, Ryan wants to keep fighting.

Favorite scene: The one just mentioned above. I don’t condone war but I was inspired how he wanted to honor his brothers and keep going. Why let them die in vain?

Honorable Mentions

Glory

Casino

Hotel Rwanda

Donnie Brasco

Texas chainsaw Massacre

Mississippi burning

Into The Wild

Cadillac Records

Blind Side

The Pursuit of Happyness

The other day while checking out one of my favorite blogs, The Urban Daily, I couldn’t contain myself as I read their The 9 Worst Hip-Hop Ballads Ever post. Some of the tracks they listed I must have missed growing up or suppressed purposely- a couple others I was actually diggin’ during my adolescent years. So since they pointed out their opinion on the worst, I decided to compliment their list with The 9 Best Hip-Hop Ballads Ever.

1. Electric Relaxation by A Tribe Called Quest

My favorite of Tribe, I like ‘em brown, yellow, Puerto Rican and Haitian as well – probably the most memorable line of the song.

2. Silent Treatment by The Roots

I remember when this track/album (Do  You Want More ??!!??) came out. I was in the eleventh grade and just about everyone that I communicated with at my school had no clue as to who The Roots were. I rocked this album daily. Silent Treatment is by far The Roots’ smoothest track and it brings some great memories back every time I rotate it. This is probably the first time (that I heard) Black Thought sings on a record.

3. Prototype by Andre 3000/Outkast

This song embraces the exploration and possibility of experiencing love, living in the moment and simply enjoying what this phase has to offer. Andre 3-stacks says it best “hopefully you’re the one, if not you are the prototype.”

4. The Light by Common

One of the best tracks from his catalog, this track by Chi-Town’s own praises the female and the ups and downs of relationships.

5. Killing Me Softly by The Fugees

Remake, yes – but the drums and adlibs instantly make this a hip-hop classic and Lauryn killed Roberta Flack’s original work.

6. All I Need w/ Mary J Blige by Method Man

The hip-hop love song of the hood, Method Man was able to tell a shorty that he loved her without saying it and keeping it gutter at the same time.

7. Tainted by Slum Village

Tainted not only features verses catered to the ladies but speaks on the tainted love from the industry. Rip Baatin.

8.  I Want To Be Down (remix) w/ Queen Latifah, MC Lyte and YoYo by Brandy

Remixing this track and putting three of the best female emcees on it gets you on this list Brandy.

9. Doin’ It by LL Cool J

He made the worst list a couple times, yes – but Doin’ It is his best track catered to the ladies. It embraces the old school boom bap feel but with a relevant sound for when it was released. Side note: Is it true he didn’t show the female who was featured on the song in the video because she was fat or unattractive?

Honorable Mentions

Got Me Waiting (remix) by Heavy D & The Boys

The Overweight Lover had some heavy dance cuts during his run, but on this remix he slowed it down and presented us with a smooth version for the ladies.

Beautiful w/ Pharrell by Snoop Dogg

The doggy dogg collaborates with The Neptunes for an up-tempo track for the ladies.

I recently got a smaller iPod, in physical size and in GIGs. I felt like I was being a pack rat with the bigger iTouch I had previously; I found myself skipping through a lot of songs I had on there. So I figured by condensing I would be forced to pick out my favorite cuts and have what I feel is the “ultimate mix” of tracks that I like to ride to – and being able to slide my newly acquired Nano in my pocket or wallet is a great feature also.

So when I got down to what A Tribe Called Quest tracks I had to have on there I found myself stuck for a few days.  Reason being, since I have limited space I only put my top 10 favorite tracks (or less) for an artist or group on there and Tribe has had more than one classic album!  One thing for sure, Electric Relaxation is my all time favorite track from them and the Midnight Marauders album is my favorite out of their discography. So how do I put just 10 tracks of them on my iPod? It’s been tough but I am getting closer to my final list of what I feel are their best. My list is below. 

Did anyone notice that Consequence, hip-hop artist and Q-Tip’s cousin is in this video as the waiter around the 3:19 mark?

Top 20 A Tribe Called Quest Tracks

1. Electric Relaxation
2. Check The Rhime
3. Scenario
4. Bonita Applebum
5. Can I Kick It
6. 1nce Again
7. Lyrics To Go
8. Find A Way
9. Get A Hold
10. The Love
11. Sucka Nigga
12. Stressed Out w/ Faith Evans
13. God Lives Through
14. Butter
15. Jazz (We’ve Got)
16. We Can Get Down
17. Like It Like That
18. Verses From The Abstract
19. 4 Moms
20. Scenario (rmx)

I might have to make an exception for Tribe and put 20 tracks…it’s hard to further condense this. Peace to one of the groups that inspired my love for hip-hop.