Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap is both a comprehensive history lesson on hip-hop and an exploration of the creative processes of the genre's most influential artists. In scenes where the different rappers freestyle, there's frequent profanity -- "f--k," "bitch," and the N-word, among others. There's also a scene in which one of the rappers is shown rolling, lighting, and smoking a joint. But for older teens and parents who are fans of the genre -- as well as music fans, period -- this is an excellent documentary about hip-hop's roots, evolution, and creative spirit.
Sexual
Content
Sex is frequently referenced in the rappers' improvisations.
Violence
No violence is shown, but gun violence is frequently alluded to in the rappers' written and freestyle performances.
Language
Frequent use of "f--k," "motherf--ker," "bitch," and the N-word.
Social
Behavior
Rappers from the past and present discuss how rap music changed their lives for the better. They discuss their creative process and the amount of work it takes to create memorable songs. The documentary serves to educate viewers and build respect for an oft-maligned musical genre.
Consumerism
Highlights successful musical artists, some of whom have albums and songs for sale.
Drugs / Tobacco /
Alcohol
One of the rappers in the film is shown rolling a joint, lighting it, and smoking it. Snoop Dogg discusses his creative process, and a part of that includes smoking a lot of marijuana.
