"You only get one shot/Do not miss your chance to blow/Opportunity comes once in a lifetime" - Eminem - "Lose Yourself"

Anyone who knows even a little of Marshall Mathers', aka Eminem's, background would recognize the story of a young man struggling to make a name for himself in Detroit's hip hop scene as being loosely related to his new movie, "8 Mile." While not autobiographical, "8 Mile" admittedly seems similar to Eminem's own story, but viewers are assured that the movie is much cleaner and much nicer than Em's actual childhood. I warn anyone planning to see the film to forget anything they know of Eminem's own story and just enjoy the film for its own merits. Aside from being an amazing lyricist and vocal performer, Eminem has now proven himself to be just as talented on the big screen. "8 Mile," starring Eminem, Mekhi Phifer, and Brittany Murphy, opened at the top of the North American box office with an Academy Award-winning (or nominated) cast and crew featuring Kim Basinger, Curtis Hanson, and Brian Grazer.

As I'm sure any other actor does, Eminem most likely draws his inspiration for many scenes from his own experiences, and he plays Rabbit in a way that most other actors couldn't. It pleases me to see a musical artist crossing over into acting with a screenplay that was not necessarily written for the sole purpose of showcasing that artist's musical talents. This film’s musical scenes showing the "battles" in the Shelter serve to enhance the film as opposed to carrying it, as with so many other films involving musical artists ("Glitter," anyone?). All I can say is, even if you’re not a fan of Eminem's music, give him a chance on the big screen. You might be pleasantly surprised.