All Eyez on Me (2017) is a biographical drama about the life, rise, and tragic death of legendary rapper and activist Tupac Shakur. Directed by Benny Boom, the film explores Tupac’s journey from a politically conscious youth to one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history, while also examining the controversies and turbulence that surrounded his fame.
Detailed Summary
Early Life and Political Roots
The film opens with Tupac (played by Demetrius Shipp Jr.) being interviewed while in prison, reflecting on his past. Through flashbacks, we see his mother, Afeni Shakur (Danai Gurira), as a strong and politically active member of the Black Panther Party. Her influence deeply shapes Tupac’s worldview—particularly his belief in social justice and speaking truth to power.
Growing up in poverty and instability, Tupac learns early how systemic racism and inequality impact Black communities. These scenes set the foundation for understanding why his music carried such powerful messages.
Breakthrough in Music and Acting
As Tupac matures, his talent becomes undeniable. He starts his career as a backup dancer and roadie for Digital Underground, later rising to prominence with his solo debut album 2Pacalypse Now. His songs—like Brenda’s Got a Baby and Trapped—showcase his raw poetic storytelling and deep empathy for the struggles of marginalized people.
We also see Tupac entering the film industry, earning praise for his acting in Juice and Poetic Justice. However, as his fame grows, so does his involvement in conflicts with the police, record executives, and rival rappers.
Legal Battles and Jail Time
Tupac’s career becomes entangled in chaos—lawsuits, media scrutiny, and escalating feuds. He is eventually convicted of sexual assault, a charge he fiercely denies, believing he’s been targeted because of his political voice and growing influence.
The film portrays his time in prison as both reflective and transformative. During his incarceration, Tupac continues to write lyrics and strengthen his resolve to rise above his circumstances.
The Death Row Era
After being bailed out by Suge Knight (Dominic L. Santana), Tupac joins Death Row Records, marking a darker and more aggressive chapter of his career. His music takes on a more combative tone, particularly in response to the East Coast–West Coast rivalry.
The tension between Tupac and The Notorious B.I.G. (played by Jamal Woolard) becomes one of the film’s central conflicts. The movie portrays this feud not as a simple personal dispute but as a tragic manipulation by the media and industry figures who benefited from the chaos.
Tupac’s Legacy and Downfall
As Tupac becomes more famous and wealthy, he also becomes increasingly disillusioned with the people around him—particularly with Suge Knight’s violent methods and the corruption within Death Row Records. The film emphasizes that Tupac was trying to move beyond the violence and use his influence for social change.
Movie Ending
In the final act, Tupac is shown traveling to Las Vegas for a boxing match with Suge Knight on September 7, 1996. The night is filled with energy and tension, foreshadowing tragedy. After the match, they encounter a rival gang member, leading to a confrontation at the MGM Grand.
Later that night, Tupac and Suge drive through the Vegas strip in a BMW. As Tupac basks in the glow of his success, a white Cadillac pulls up beside them and opens fire. The shooting is quick and chaotic—Tupac is struck multiple times while Suge is grazed by bullets.
The film ends with Tupac being rushed to the hospital, where he clings to life for six days before dying at the age of 25. The closing moments show Afeni Shakur mourning her son, with a voiceover of Tupac’s words about legacy and immortality through art: “I’m not saying I’m gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world.”
The ending is tragic but reflective—it positions Tupac not as a victim of fate, but as a visionary whose message outlived him.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, All Eyez on Me does not have any post-credits scenes. The film concludes with archival footage and images of the real Tupac Shakur, serving as a tribute to his life and impact.
Type of Movie
The film is a biographical drama and musical biopic, with elements of social commentary and political reflection. It blends real historical events with dramatized interpretations of Tupac’s private life.
Cast
- Demetrius Shipp Jr. as Tupac Shakur
- Danai Gurira as Afeni Shakur
- Dominic L. Santana as Suge Knight
- Kat Graham as Jada Pinkett Smith
- Jamal Woolard as The Notorious B.I.G.
- Lauren Cohan as Leila Steinberg
- Hill Harper as the Journalist
Film Music and Composer
The soundtrack features many of Tupac’s most iconic songs, including California Love, Hail Mary, and Keep Ya Head Up. The score was composed by John Paesano, who blended orchestral music with classic hip-hop beats. The soundtrack plays a crucial role in carrying the emotional weight of Tupac’s story, often reflecting his inner struggles and philosophies.
Filming Locations
All Eyez on Me was filmed primarily in Atlanta, Georgia, with additional scenes in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Los Angeles, California. These locations were chosen to mirror the environments that shaped Tupac’s real life—Los Angeles representing his rise to fame, Atlanta his mother’s activism, and Las Vegas marking his tragic final night.
Awards and Nominations
While All Eyez on Me received mixed critical reviews, it was praised by many fans for its performances and attention to Tupac’s legacy. It was nominated for Best Music Film at the 2018 BET Awards and earned recognition from the African-American Film Critics Association for its cultural significance.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Demetrius Shipp Jr. was cast partly because of his uncanny resemblance to Tupac and his ability to mirror Tupac’s mannerisms.
- The film faced several production delays and legal disputes, particularly involving Tupac’s estate.
- Director Benny Boom aimed to present a balanced portrayal of Tupac—not just as a rapper, but as a revolutionary and poet.
- Jada Pinkett Smith publicly criticized parts of the movie for inaccuracies, particularly how her friendship with Tupac was portrayed.
Inspirations and References
The film draws directly from Tupac Shakur’s real life, his poetry, and his interviews. It also references his albums, particularly Me Against the World and All Eyez on Me, which serve as thematic backbones.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
Early versions of the film reportedly contained longer scenes of Tupac’s prison reflections and more context on his activism. These were shortened for pacing reasons. No alternate endings have been officially released, though director Benny Boom stated that an “extended cut” would one day provide a fuller view of Tupac’s internal struggles.
Book Adaptations and Differences
While All Eyez on Me is not based on a single book, it pulls heavily from Tupac: Resurrection, a 2003 documentary narrated by Tupac himself. The film dramatizes several moments differently for cinematic impact—for example, the confrontation scenes with Suge Knight are exaggerated for intensity.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Tupac’s impassioned speech about police brutality in a university panel.
- The recording session for California Love, capturing his creative genius.
- The heartfelt goodbye scene between Tupac and Jada Pinkett before he leaves for Los Angeles.
- The Las Vegas shooting, shot with haunting realism.
Iconic Quotes
- “I’m not a thug. I’m a reflection of the society that made me.”
- “Reality is wrong. Dreams are for real.”
- “You can spend minutes, hours, days, or years analyzing a situation… or you can just leave the pieces on the floor and move on.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The film recreates real photos and interviews almost frame-by-frame, such as Tupac’s Vibe magazine photoshoot.
- Several extras in the film were actual fans and activists from the West Coast hip-hop community.
- The BMW Tupac rides in during the final scene is modeled to exact specifications of the real car.
Trivia
- Demetrius Shipp Jr.’s father worked on Tupac’s hit song Toss It Up as a producer.
- The film’s title comes directly from Tupac’s 1996 double album All Eyez on Me.
- The movie’s release date coincided with Tupac’s birthday, June 16, as a tribute.
- Filming the Vegas scene was emotionally taxing for the cast and crew, many of whom were lifelong fans.
Why Watch?
Because All Eyez on Me isn’t just a story about a rapper—it’s a story about a young Black man navigating fame, injustice, and the desire to change the world. It’s for anyone interested in the intersection of art, politics, and legacy. Even with its imperfections, the film captures the spirit of Tupac: fearless, poetic, and unforgettable.
Director’s Other Movies
- Next Day Air (2009)
- S.W.A.T.: Under Siege (2017)
- True to the Game (2017)
