Title: Freaknik: The Wildest Party Never Told
MPA Rating: Not Rated
Director: P. Frank Williams
Starring: André 3000, The Notorious B.I.G., Killer Mike
Runtime: 1 hr 22 mins
What It Is: In the 1990’s a group of HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) students decided to form a black party to celebrate their spring break. Through the natural progression of this event a this block party picnic dubbed “Freaknik” became thee social event for the Black youth of Atlanta. As it grew so did it’s infamy within the Atlanta community leading many to question the merits of the celebration. One things for sure. There’s Atlanta before Freaknik and Atlanta after.
What We Think: This is such an interesting look at a subject I had no idea about. It’s also an amazing time capsule for the period of time it talks about. The 1990’s is so nostalgic for me. It was a simpler time. This illustrates that. As this event got closer to the 21st century it got more outlandish and out of control. The music though…that slapped throughout. Hearing first hand from the college students that started this whole thing really gives insight into how this small event became a culture changer.
Our Grade: A-, SXSW is always a beacon for interesting music documentaries. This is one that deserves the eyeballs it’ll receive by being on Hulu. What the legacy of this event is is solely up to you the audience. Perhaps it means nothing to you. Perhaps it was your first real exposure to the hip-hop culture of the dirty dirty south. We got a shot to hang out for a bit with the director P. Frank Williams and producer Geraldine L. Porras. We only got two questions but we hope we made the most of it! Check that out below! Make sure you check the film out on Hulu it’s both informative and fun. The latter surprisingly so. Also…if you all could bring an act for a revival concert who would you pick? Let us know!