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Plot Summary
Twenty years after the release of Nas's groundbreaking debut album 'Illmatic,' Nas: Time Is Illmatic takes us into the heart of his creative process. Returning to his childhood home in Queensbridge, Nas shares stories of his upbringing, his influences — from the music of his jazz musician father Olu Dara to the burgeoning hip-hop scene in New York City — and the obstacles he faced before his major label signing at age 20. Featuring interviews with his 'Illmatic' producers (Large Professor, Pete Rock, Q-Tip, L.E.S., and DJ Premier) and musical peers (including Pharrell Williams, Alicia Keys, and Busta Rhymes), Nas: Time Is Illmatic is a thrilling account of Nas's evolution from a young street poet to a visionary MC.
Credits
Director
Screenwriter
Rotten Tomatoes Movie Reviews
TOMATOMETER
100%- Reviews Counted: 20
- Fresh: 20
- Rotten: 0
- Average Rating: 7.2/10
Top Critics' Reviews
Fresh: Despite some conventional moves here and there and a weakness for the cult of genius, the documentary sustains that uneasy mood cast by Nas's expression as a child on the "Illmatic" cover, sobered by experience and wisdom before his time.
Fresh: As both an origin story about a great artist and a distillation of '80s urban blight, it's as breathless and real as any street-corner rhyme.
Fresh: [A] brisk, stylish and extremely heartfelt portrait of Nas' rise from the housing projects of Queensbridge to the heights of hip-hop royalty.
Fresh: Since many of the themes from "Illmatic" have become mere cliches in contemporary rap, this film serves as a reminder of the potential and the promise that hip-hop truly holds.
Customer Reviews
Saw during the premier—Must Watch!
Most spectacular story showing a man rising from the projects to become a king. You all know him, you’ve heard his album, so watch the movie!! Buying the video now to watch it tomorrow. Still can’t express how brilliant it is!
Nas - Time Is ILLMatic
This film "Time Is ILLMatic is an Inspiring documentary of Nasir Jones.. Film takes you from his childhood growth, the streets, the making & life of ILLMatic, & how he used the streets as fuel to becoming the humble successful artist he is today. A Must See for anyone & everyone!
Classic chronicle of a classic piece of art!
Enjoyed the D.C. showing of the film last night, and already looking forward to watching it again.
