Copyright Criminals poster

Copyright Criminals (2009)

"This is a Sampling Sport"

6.820091h 5mEN
MusicDocumentary

Directed by Kembrew McLeod

Rating

6.8/10

Runtime

1h 5m

Language

EN

Release

May 21, 2009

Director

Kembrew McLeod

Official Trailer

Trailer thumbnail

Overview

Copyright Criminals examines the creative and commercial value of musical sampling, including the related debates over artistic expression, copyright law, and (of course) money. This documentary traces the rise of hip-hop from the urban streets of New York to its current status as a multibillion-dol...

Cast

Aesop Rock

Aesop Rock

Himself

George Clinton

George Clinton

Himself

Chuck D

Chuck D

Himself

El-P

El-P

Himself

Sage Francis

Sage Francis

Himself

Pam the Funsktress

Pam the Funsktress

Herself

Bobbito Garcia

Bobbito Garcia

Himself

Miho Hatori

Miho Hatori

Herself

Shock G

Shock G

Himself

Mix Master Mike

Mix Master Mike

Himself

Prefuse 73

Prefuse 73

Himself

DJ Q-Bert

DJ Q-Bert

Himself

Introduction

In this latest movie review, we dive deep into Copyright Criminals (2009), exploring its intricate plot and standout performances that have everyone talking.

Copyright Criminals examines the creative and commercial value of musical sampling, including the related debates over artistic expression, copyright law, and (of course) money. This documentary traces the rise of hip-hop from the urban streets of New York to its current status as a multibillion-dollar industry. For more than thirty years, innovative hip-hop performers and producers have been re-using portions of previously recorded music in new, otherwise original compositions. When lawyers and record companies got involved, what was once referred to as a “borrowed melody” became a “copyright infringement.” The film showcases many of hip-hop music’s founding figures like Public Enemy, De La Soul, and Digital Underground—while also featuring emerging hip-hop artists from record labels Definitive Jux, Rhymesayers, Ninja Tune, and more.

🛑 Story ExplainedSpoiler Warning

Our story explained section breaks down the complex narrative of Copyright Criminals. The full story follows a progression that challenges typical tropes, leading to a climax that requires careful analysis.

🏆 Final Verdict

5 / 5 Stars

A triumphant piece of cinema that blends gripping narrative with breathtaking visuals.

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