8 Mile

Although claiming to be fiction, director Hanson's thinly veiled bio of star Eminem's escape from the streets of Detroit will please more than the rapper's fans. Rabbit (Eminem) is a joyless autoworker living in the trailer park with his loose mother (Basinger) and little sister Lily (Greenfield). The only time that Rabbit has a chance to shine is at the rap battles organized by pal Future (Phifer), who sees talent in his friend. Also recognizing greatness (and a possible ticket out of the 'hood) is aspiring model Alex (Murphy), who quickly consummates a calculating relationship with Rabbit. The climactic rap battle allows Eminem to showcase the talent that made this "Rocky"-esque vehicle possible, although it wisely ends with Rabbit on the cusp of success and not at the pinnacle. Shot on location in Detroit.