Who's behind the notes? Discover Set It Off: Biography of the American Pop-Punk Band
"Set It Off" is a 1996 American crime drama film directed by F. Gary Gray. While it's not a horror movie, it does have some intense and haunting elements. Here are some interesting facts about the film:
All-Female Leading Cast: "Set It Off" is notable for having an all-female leading cast. The main characters are played by Jada Pinkett Smith, Queen Latifah, Vivica A. Fox, and Kimberly Elise. This was a rare occurrence in the crime thriller genre at the time and added a unique perspective to the film.
Directorial Debut: F. Gary Gray, who directed "Set It Off," made his directorial debut with this film. He went on to become a successful director in Hollywood, with credits including "The Italian Job" and "Straight Outta Compton."
Inspiration from Real Events: The film was inspired by real-life events, particularly the Los Angeles bank robbery shootout in 1997, involving two heavily armed bank robbers who engaged in a lengthy firefight with police. This incident served as a backdrop for some of the film's action scenes.
Financial Success: "Set It Off" was a box office success, grossing over $41 million worldwide against a budget of approximately $9 million.
Soundtrack: The film's soundtrack featured songs from popular artists of the time, including En Vogue, Brandy, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, and Queen Latifah herself. The soundtrack received positive reviews and contributed to the film's overall impact.
Critical Reception: The film received generally positive reviews from critics, with particular praise for the performances of the leading cast members. It was lauded for its portrayal of the struggles of working-class African American women and their descent into a life of crime.
Impact on Pop Culture: "Set It Off" has had a lasting impact on pop culture, especially in the African American community. It is often cited as a classic in the heist genre and is celebrated for its portrayal of strong, complex female characters.
Queen Latifah's Role: Queen Latifah, who played the role of Cleopatra "Cleo" Sims, received critical acclaim for her performance. Her character is memorable for her tough exterior and iconic cornrow hairstyle.
Social Commentary: The film touches on various social issues, including poverty, racism, and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. It delves into the motivations behind the characters' criminal actions and provides a thought-provoking commentary on their choices.
Legacy: "Set It Off" continues to have a dedicated fan base and is often revisited as a classic of its genre. It remains relevant in discussions about the representation of women and African Americans in crime films.
While "Set It Off" may not be a traditional haunting movie, it certainly left a lasting impact on the world of cinema and is remembered for its compelling characters and gripping storytelling.