[Review] ‘Salt-N-Pepa’ Biopic: “Real Sassy, Sophisticated, Ride or Die Sisterhood” (4/5 Stars)

Lifetime will premiere the biopic about the evolution of the first iconic female hip hop group, “Salt-N-Pepa” on January 23, 2020, at 8/7c.  The movie stars GG Townson as Cheryl “Salt” James, Laila Odom as Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton, Cleveland Berti as music producer ‘Hurby Azor’ and Monique Paul as ‘DJ Spinderella.’ Directed by Mario Van Peebles, the film is executive produced by Cheryl James, Sandra Denton, and Queen Latifah. (Scroll down to watch the trailer) 

“Salt-N-Pepa” details the journey of Queensborough Community College nursing students Cheryl ‘Salt’ James and Sandra ‘Pepa’ Denton as they enter the world of rap and hip hop, after recording a song for their friend Hurby Azor. Salt-N-Pepa made a huge impact as one of the first all-female rap groups, changing the look of hip hop and being unafraid to talk about sex and share their thoughts on men.

The movie follows the group as they become the first female rap act to go platinum and experience ground-breaking success with multiple awards, including a Grammy award – paving the way for all female rappers to follow. The biopic will feature performances of Salt-N-Pepa’s greatest hits, including: “Let’s Talk About Sex”, “What a Man”, “Shoop” and “Push It.”

Watch the “Salt-N-Pepa” movie trailer:

During a virtual press conference, actors  GG Townson and Laila Odom explained how imperative it was that they develop a true friendship between the two actors. They wanted to make sure what you saw on screen was the same relationship Cheryl and Sandra experienced. In this three-hour tribute to these women, you’ll see the evolution of them in their careers, relationships, and womanhood. 

REVIEW

These ladies paved the way for most female rappers in the industry today. They started their career being bold, unabashed, and determined to prove exactly why they should be called the ‘First Ladies of Rap and Hip Hop’. It was more than just talking about sex and men but being 100% true to themselves. All in all, the main message that is screamed at the loudest octave during this film is how womanhood progresses and what you should fall for in life. Stand in your integrity and do only the things that start a flame in your soul. Do not be afraid to look within yourself in this search for finding the right things in life. Most importantly, take care of your business even if that business isn’t taking care of you.

This will be the film you want to watch with your girlfriends. It is not only a front-row seat to this legendary duo but also a true grown woman friendship. The story of a friendship being tested through every trial and tribulation in life is truly inspiring. Tune into the evening of sassy, sophisticated, ride or die sisterhood.

Rating: 4/5 stars

All photos courtesy of Lifetime (A+E Networks)