If you loved the nostalgic beats and cultural impact of 'Video Music Box' (2021), this article is for you. Discover 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same energy, music history, and documentary-style storytelling. Whether you're a hip-hop enthusiast or a fan of music documentaries, these picks will keep you entertained and informed.

Beat Street (1984)
Description: A classic that delves into the early days of hip-hop culture, showcasing breakdancing, DJing, and graffiti art. It mirrors the vibrant and rebellious spirit of the music scene.
Fact: The film is credited with helping to popularize breakdancing worldwide. It features performances by real-life hip-hop pioneers like Afrika Bambaataa.


The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990)
Description: While primarily a sitcom, it incorporates hip-hop culture and music into its narrative, reflecting the influence of the genre on mainstream media during the 90s.
Fact: Will Smith's character was loosely based on his own life. The show's theme song, performed by Smith, became iconic and is still widely recognized today.


Brown Sugar (2002)
Description: A romantic comedy that intertwines love stories with a deep appreciation for hip-hop music, reflecting the genre's influence on personal and professional relationships.
Fact: The film features cameos from several real-life hip-hop artists and is often praised for its authentic portrayal of the music industry.


8 Mile (2002)
Description: This film provides an intimate look at the underground rap battles and the personal struggles of an aspiring rapper, mirroring the authenticity and intensity of the hip-hop scene.
Fact: Eminem's performance in the film earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Song for 'Lose Yourself,' which became a global hit.


Hustle & Flow (2005)
Description: A gritty portrayal of an aspiring rapper trying to escape his life of crime through music, capturing the raw and unfiltered essence of the hip-hop struggle.
Fact: The film's song 'It's Hard out Here for a Pimp' won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, a rare feat for a hip-hop track.


Notorious (2009)
Description: This biopic chronicles the life of The Notorious B.I.G., offering a glimpse into the highs and lows of his career and the hip-hop scene of the 90s.
Fact: The film's soundtrack includes original recordings by The Notorious B.I.G., blending his music with the narrative seamlessly.


Straight Outta Compton (2015)
Description: A biographical drama about the rise of the influential rap group N.W.A., showcasing the cultural and political impact of their music.
Fact: The film was a box office success and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay.


All Eyez on Me (2017)
Description: A biographical film about Tupac Shakur, highlighting his impact on hip-hop culture and the controversies surrounding his life and career.
Fact: The movie faced legal challenges from Tupac's estate, which initially opposed its production due to concerns over accuracy.


Empire (2015)
Description: This drama series revolves around a hip-hop music empire, highlighting the power struggles, family dynamics, and the business side of the music industry.
Fact: The show's soundtrack featured original music and was a commercial success, with several songs charting on the Billboard Hot


The Breaks (2017)
Description: This film explores the hip-hop music scene, focusing on the struggles and triumphs of artists trying to make it in the industry, much like the reference title. It captures the raw energy and passion of the music world.
Fact: The movie was inspired by Dan Charnas's book 'The Big Payback: The History of the Business of Hip-Hop.' It features a mix of fictional and real-life hip-hop elements.
