BEATBOX

Cinemavixion Review

Andrew Dresher's "Beatbox" (2015) is a vibrant exploration of a niche yet electrifying art form, capturing the raw energy and competitive spirit of the beatboxing scene. The film centers on Pete, a Brooklyn DJ and musician yearning for a breakthrough that will liberate him from his mundane beer-delivery job. His path takes an unexpected turn when he is drawn into the intricate world of beatboxing, finding a mentor in the gifted singer Rye. The narrative skillfully parallels the underdog journeys seen in films like "8 Mile," charting Pete's suspenseful rise from obscurity to the national finals. Dresher imbues the film with palpable authenticity by enlisting formidable talents from the beatboxing community, ensuring that the jaw-dropping skills and inventiveness on display are second to none. While Pete's musical aspirations soar, the film also navigates the complexities of his personal life, particularly his relationship with Becca. The soundtrack is an undeniable highlight, a pulsating testament to the power of the human voice as both instrument and vocalist, making "Beatbox" a compelling watch for music lovers and fans of inspiring underdog stories.