‘Straight Outta Compton’ Targets Police Brutality, Director Hopes Story Will Inspire Youth

Detailing how one of the most famous West Coast rap groups rose to fame from the streets of California, the N.W.A. biopic Straight Outta Compton is slated to hit theaters nationwide in just a few days.

The film’s director, F. Gary Gray, recently sat down with BackstageOL’s Dave Morales to discuss how he had to separate himself from being a fan and a director, and why he believes the story within Straight Outta Compton is a story that is important to tell.

“It goes beyond the music. It transcends race, hip-hop,” Gray explained. “There are themes that are universal. You have brotherhood, you have betrayal, you have rags-to-riches; you can be inspired by these guys. I think, stories like that last forever, and that’s why I think it’s important.”

Though these events happened in the 90s, the matter is still so appropriate today in our community. When asked what he hoped people walked away with after watching the film, he replied, “I hope people are inspired across the board.”

“I hope they do better in all realms that we tend to visit in this movie, whether it by music, or business, or friendship, family, but also law enforcement. There’s room for change in the culture in law enforcement, and we touch on it in this movie as well.”

Straight Outta Compton is set to release on August 14th. Watch the complete interview with F. Gary Gray below: