The Movie Insider

Director Rich Murray puts the Philadelphia hip-hop scene on the map with "Snipes", an urban crime thriller that breathes fresh life into the genre. Erik (Sam Jones III) is an ambitious teenager who spends more time posting flyers for his favorite rapper, Prolifik (Nelly), than sitting in the classroom. When he and his best friend stumble across a dead body one night, they trigger a series of tragic events. It turns out Prolifik, as well as the master tapes for his new record, have been kidnapped by a gang of thugs who want Bobby Starr (Dean Winters), the ruthless president of Prolifik's label, to dish out a meaty ransom. If he doesn't, they promise to make sure Bobby's uncle and chief investor, the dangerous Johnny Marandino (Frank Vincent), knows just how carelessly Bobby has been spending his money. Through a misunderstanding, Erik becomes the target of Bobby Starr, as well as the kidnappers. Fearful for his own life, as well as his father's, Erik must find a way to get his hands on the master tapes, before Bobby Starr gets his hands on him. Murray's energizing film boasts credible performances¯especially from rap superstar Nelly¯and a pulsating hip-hop soundtrack.

This film screened in April 2002 in New York City as part of the Gen Art Film Festival.