Movie Review: ‘Trap City’- A Quintessential “hood movie” and More.

Music has often been an escape route for many stuck in the tough realities of life in the hood. But is it ever that simple? Can one viral hit song truly pave the way for a clean break from everything holding you back, or is the journey out far more complicated? Writer and director, Tel Ganesan explores this poignant question in his intriguing drama ‘Trap City‘.

The story follows DeShawn (played by Brandon T. Jackson), a struggling rapper, whose dreams of stardom collide with the harsh realities of the drug trade. DeShawn works for Goose (played by Clifton Powell), a ruthless and dangerous drug boss. His life takes an unexpected turn when a freestyle video filmed by his friend Trey (played by Juhahn Jones) goes viral, propelling him to overnight fame. He gets arrested for his affiliation with Goose who is under surveillance by the feds. Thinking that he might cooperate with the feds, Goose orders a hit on him that almost succeeds. This adds on to his fame as his freestyle video starts to go viral. He now has record executives as well on his tail and and growing threat to his life.

Brandon T. Jackson in Trap City (2024)

At its core, ‘Trap City‘ is a story of sudden fame, poor choices, and the repercussions of living life on the edge. DeShawn‘s character reflects the universal struggle of chasing dreams while being weighed down by the chains of circumstance. Despite his newfound viral success, the choices he has made threaten to derail his future.

Brandon T. Jackson delivers a decent performance as DeShawn, embodying the gravity of the character’s situation. Known for his comedic roles, Jackson successfully shifts gears here, bringing depth and earnestness to his portrayal. He avoids the comedic tendencies fans might expect, offering a more grounded and serious take that suits the film’s tone. Even though he doesn’t look like he is not entirely comfortable in some of the scenes, it all adds well to the performance and makes it work.

Another standout performance comes from rapper Jeezy, who makes his acting debut as Reverend Lylee. A former gang affiliate turned reformed minister, Reverend Lylee is a key figure helping DeShawn’s father appeal his case and get out of prison. Jeezy‘s portrayal is intense and stoic, adding an intriguing layer to the character and enhancing the film’s narrative. Meanwhile, Clifton Powell delivers an intimidating performance as Goose, commanding every scene with his menacing presence.

Clifton Powell in Trap City (2024)

Visually, ‘Trap City‘ captures the quintessential “hood movie” aesthetic while elevating it with a more cinematic approach. The production elements, particularly the visuals and sound design all enhance the story’s themes and tone, adding some value to the overall production.

However, the film is not without its flaws.  Tel Ganesan attempts to blend elements of a traditional hood drama with those of a crime thriller, but the results are mixed. While the narrative is ambitious, it suffers from several glaring mishaps in the narrative. For instance, it is never explained properly how DeShawn’s lawyer found him and why he is taking so much interest in him. Additionally, a subplot involving a character seeking answers about her brother’s murder feels underdeveloped and disconnected from the main storyline. Reverend Lylee’s deeper involvement in this subplot is hinted at but never fully explored.

The romantic elements in the film feel forced and unnecessary. Particularly DeShawn’s relationships with his girlfriend Marisol (played by Phlicia Lloyd) and then subsequently with Bella (played by Erica Pinkett) a stripper with a secret who is Goose‘s girl. All these end up complicating an already crowded narrative and end up diluting the focus of the story rather than enhancing it.

Despite its shortcomings, ‘Trap City‘ manages to hold your attention with its core message of perseverance and the cost of chasing one’s dreams. It raises important questions about fame, morality, and survival in a high-pressure environment.

It might not be entirely a groundbreaking film, but it is a decent drama with moments of intensity and heart. I will score this film 6/10. Tel Ganesan’s attempt to push beyond the typical tropes of hood movies is commendable, even if it doesn’t always land. For viewers who enjoy gritty dramas with a dose of social commentary, this film is worth a watch, even if only once.

Phylicía Lloyd and Brandon T. Jackson in Trap City (2024)