Rize

Rize is an outstanding documentary. The film was engaging and thought-provoking. I never heard of “clowning” until I watched this movie. Tommy the Clown’s influence on young people, teenagers and children, is remarkable. When kids and teens join him, he plays a father figure by advising them to stay in school and stay away from gang colors.  His own story is quite inspirational. Tommy used to be a drug dealer. After going to jail, he realized he could not stand it and would not want to return. Thus, Tommy became Tommy the Clown. He is an entertaining hip hop dancer, so he used his moves and energetic charisma at birthday parties to entertain. As a result, he stuck with his job and gathered other young people to join him. In Los Angeles, California circa 2002, Tommy and over fifty other groups were “clowning” and dancing.

           

 Different dance styles emerged in the streets of LA as groups of people left Tommy’s dance crew. One group that I really liked watching was the group of krumpers. In the documentary, some explain that krumping appears aggressive, but it is a positive way to take out their anger from the problems they experience. They described themselves as oppressed people who channel anger through art. One described it as “ghetto ballet,” but there is no need for schooling. The emotions they have and the ability to do krumping was implanted in them by birth. As an elder described about Harlem’s art, traditional West African culture is “made from community, reflects community, and does something in the community.” The dance groups in Los Angeles set an example of traditional West African culture. The dancers (artists) perform on the streets, in homes, in parks, etc., and they reflect the community. These dancers are expressing their emotions, whether sad or joyous, through their dancing. They make a difference in their community; the dancers make sure they do well in school, entertain others, form friendships, and support each other. Dancing keeps the young people from getting involved in gangs.

            

I would recommend Rize to anyone who has not seen the film. It is an interesting film and has insightful, emotional stories from people who use performing arts to express their feelings of oppression or to also bring joy. The dancing was really entertaining to watch as well.