Knees weak, arms are heavy... although that could just be because it's Monday. The good news is that that also means it's time for another episode of Bring Your Own Blockbuster. Can you believe we're already up to episode 13 and it's time for the turn of Marshall Mathers, Eminem and 8 Mile.

From the gritty streets of Detroit, Eminem's Jimmy Smith Jr attempts to break into the Hip Hop scene through the world of Rap Battles, it is dominated by African American's and we start the film by seeing Jimmy choke under the pressure of the hostile crowd.

There's as ever lots to get stuck into on the pod - but one of the most important and crucial parts of this film was the way in which it both reflected and shaped culture at the time. It's undeniable that Eminem was one of the most famous people on the face of the earth at the time and was at the peak of his powers. Anyone around at that time will know the impact that he had on almost anything in mainstream popular culture.

It's really difficult to look past Eminem for the role of MVP but there's a really wonderful supporting cast here that help provide some amazing discussion around the nature of male friendship. we discuss crab theory and its antithesis.

There's also a big breakdown to be had around the ending of this film. This isn't a happily ever after - which begs the question, is this film actually autobiographical? Is it deliberately left in an ambiguous fashion so that we are forced to confront the fact that Jimmy maybe never made it. It's also not lost on the guys that Eminem never really followed this up with a big acting career despite the fact that this debut performance was highly applauded by the critics.

This was a great film to have a crack at - and a real nostalgic favourite. There's no getting away from the fact the soundtrack is elite but when we ask the question around the ageing process, there's bound to be a few youngsters who find Eminem's turn here a bit cringe. Unfortunately fellow kids you are all wrong and he is the goat.

Bring Your Own Blockbuster isn’t just a film review podcast, we try our best each week to dive deep into the themes and discussions that make cinema so special - and we’d love to hear your feedback on the film. What did meet it mean to you? What did we miss? Get involved and tell us what you think on social media, you can find us everywhere at @byobpod

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Broadcast on:

18 Jun 2023