(rated R) One of the best soon-to-be-big-word-of-mouth movies about to place actor Terrence Howard, on the map. Howard stars as Djay, a Memphis pimp by day, who dreams of musical success by night. When a friend (Anthony Anderson) helps him produce a song they make up – “Whoop That Trick (It’s Hard For A Pimp)”, Howard’s life is about to change. Enter Skinny Black (real life rapper Ludacris) who is a childhood friend and possibly Howard’s claim to fame. While the story has a lot of fantasy to it, it’s the grit that stabilizes what would otherwise be fluff. And, like all good real life rap legends (Fifty Cent, Ole Dirty Bastard, Tupac etc.) there is something to be said with killing or stabbing a fellow rapper that surfaces one to fame. Somehow the deep longing, coupled with the integrity in believing fame can happen, dismisses in their minds, any crime, so long as he follows his version of the ghetto American dream. Outstanding performances by all in this underdog crowd pleaser. Top pick at Sundance and Nantucket Film Festival 2005.