The Best Rap Movies

Over 4.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Rap Movies
Voting Rules
Movies must feature rap as a plot point.

The best rap movies tend to be biopics about rappers but there are also finctional comedies too. This list includes movies that feature all types of rap: east coast, west coast, gangsta, hip hop, pop, etc. While rap itself might not be for everyone, the films that use rap as a central theme are surprisingly accessible. 8 Mile is not just a great rap movie, it's great film in general. While the majority of the films on this list are dramas, some are also comedies. If you enjoy rap, rappers, hip-hop, or movies in general, you're bound to love more than just a few of the films on this list.

You get to help decide which of these rap films gets to be at the top of the list. Vote up your favorite movies and feel free to rerank this list if you aren't happy with the current rankings.

You might also like this list of the best '90s Hip Hop movies.

Most divisive: Malibu's Most Wanted
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  • Straight Outta Compton
    1
    O'Shea Jackson, Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell
    1,441 votes
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: F. Gary Gray

    Detailing the rising fame and tumultuous personal struggles of N.W.A, this film delivers a compelling portrayal of how one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history was formed. It delves deep into the socio-political context and racial tensions that shaped their music, making it a must-watch for any fan of socio-politically conscious music. The bio-drama’s rawness and authenticity serve to highlight the trials and tribulations of the young artists, making their eventual success all the more poignant.

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  • 8 Mile
    2
    Eminem, Kim Basinger, Brittany Murphy
    2,291 votes
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Curtis Hanson

    This gritty drama stars Eminem as the underprivileged Jimmy Smith Jr., who finds solace and expression through the medium of rap. His powerful performances in the intense rap battles bring forth the raw emotion of the genre, and it's a testament to the transformative power of music. It is a captivating tale of personal growth and relentless determination against all odds, making it an essential watch for any hip-hop aficionado.

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  • Boyz n the Hood
    3
    Laurence Fishburne, Ice Cube, Cuba Gooding
    354 votes
    • Released: 1991
    • Directed by: John Singleton

    This drama depicts the lives of three young men navigating the challenges of growing up in South Central L.A., amidst violence and gang culture. Their story is accentuated by a hip-hop soundtrack that reflects the harsh realities of their environment and gives voice to their dreams and despair. This film is a poignant exploration of the socio-political influences on urban youth and subtly highlights the integral role of hip-hop in their lives.

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  • Friday
    4
    Ice Cube, Chris Tucker, Nia Long
    1,093 votes
    • Released: 1995
    • Directed by: F. Gary Gray

    This comedy, laced with hip-hop references and an iconic soundtrack, offers a refreshing and humorous take on the lives of two friends in South Central Los Angeles. Through the lens of humor, it sheds light on the tough realities of their neighbourhood and explores the underlying unity forged by shared struggles. Its unique blend of comedy and hip-hop centric narrative makes this film a standout in the genre.

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  • Juice
    5
    Omar Epps, Tupac Shakur, Jermaine "Huggy" Hopkins
    970 votes
    • Released: 1992
    • Directed by: Ernest R. Dickerson

    Juice presents a riveting depiction of four friends embroiled in a world of violent crime in Harlem. Its compelling narrative is enhanced by a hip-hop score that lends an authentic voice to the characters' emotions and experiences. It's a compelling exploration of friendship, trust, and betrayal in the backdrop of a hip-hop-infused urban landscape.

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  • Menace II Society
    6
    Tyrin Turner, Jada Pinkett Smith, Vonte Sweet
    722 votes
    • Released: 1993
    • Directed by: Allen Hughes, Albert Hughes

    This film paints a stark picture of life in the Watts neighbourhood of Los Angeles, centered on a young man grappling with his conscience amidst a cycle of violence. The movie's impactful narrative is drawn even deeper by the profound hip-hop soundtrack, which echoes the protagonist's strife. The storytelling highlights the omnipresence of hip-hop in the characters’ lives, reflecting the genre's influence on inner-city culture.

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