ARTICLE
5 Reasons to Catch Netflix’s Hip-Hop Drama ‘The Get Down’!
By Flora / 12 Aug 2016 (Friday)
Photo Credit: Netflix
The Get Down by Baz Luhrmann chronicles the rise of hip-hop in the last days of disco – told through the lives and music of the South Bronx kids who would change the world forever – in this music-driven, 1970s New York-set drama series.
Part One of The Get Down, comprising of six episodes is now available for streaming for all Netflix members in Singapore, and six more will be made available at a later date.
1. It’s Baz Luhrmann!
Photo Credit: Netflix
This man needs no introduction. Even if you’ve not heard his name, you definitely have came across one of his many films to date. Director of critically-acclaimed films like ‘Romeo + Juliet’ (1996), ‘Moulin Rouge!’ (2001), and ‘The Great Gatsby’ (2013).
Widely known for an uncompromising vision for this films, Luhrmann is an all-round filmmaker who never fails to amaze with his production design in his productions. He was inspired by a framed Jamel Shabazz photograph of two kids in hip-hop stance in a restaurant in Paris 10 years ago. He then thought to himself ‘How did so much creativity come from New York in that movement at that time?’… and the rest is history.
2. Musical drama
Photo Credit: Netflix
Just admit it. Watching a musical film gives that same fuzzy feeling when you take a warm shower on a rainy evening, and just right after indulging in a plate of delicious, cheesy nachos meal. 'The Get Down' may not be belting out musical numbers like the ones in 'Grease' or 'Hairspray', but what the drama promises is a good old fashioned hip-hop jive. The series comprises of young triple threat newcomers, established stars and real-life hip-hop legends, where they will rap, dance, and sing their way through the episodes! It's hard not to fall in love with this one.
3. Soundtrack
Photo Credit: Netflix
The official soundtrack features some of music biggest names - like Christina Aguilera, Zayn, Miguel and Nas, with a wide range of different musical genres and styles, including a original piece written by Nas, a renowned hip-hop star! Those familiar with the hip-hop scene, ‘Grandmaster Flash’, one of the pioneers in hip-hop, drops a few tracks, DJing for the soundtrack album as well!
The soundtrack is now available via Apple Music.
4. Choreography
Photo Credit: Netflix
Well, ‘The Get Down’ after all, is about chronicling the rise of Hip-Hop genre, and the dance numbers in the drama is one not to be missed. The dance choreography in the show is created by Rich and Tone who also choreographed for artists such as Madonna, Chris Brown, Jennifer Lopez, Usher, Gwen Stefani, Kylie Minogue, Pink, Missy Elliott and more!
Hip-hop legend Rahiem even helped the actors learn how to perform in a classic hip-hop style, which can be seen in throughout the episodes!
5. Most Expensive Series by Netflix
Photo Credit: Netflix
According to a report by Variety, Netflix has invested a lot into Luhrmann’s envision of The Get Down, racking up around $120 million! What really stands out in The Get Down is in its visual attractiveness. The combination of colour, its pleasure-loving aesthetics and a whole lot of intricate detailing of its sets, costumes and props! Just watch the trailer below and take a look for yourself!
Watch 'The Get Down' on Netflix and tell us what you think about the show, in the comments below!