First things first. Eminem is a good actor. Not a great actor but I’m sure with a bit more training he could handle a stronger role, for whilst he plays the lead in this film, he doesn’t have much to say or do beyond himself. Will be interesting seeing him stretched with something a bit more challenging, but I digress.
The story is simple enough and the director never veers far from previously covered territory. Supporting cast is strong enough, although as ever someone needs to tell Ms.Basinger that less is more. You buy into the plotline, and are given just enough to hook you in. Have heard this describe as the “Rocky for the Noughties” and that’s about right. The closing rap ‘battle’ is a good punctuation point for the film. All in all, nothing spectacular but I’ve seen a lot worse.