I came across an article today entitled “ThinkFilm hip to ‘Hip Hop’ docu project” that reported ThinkFilm’s purchase of upcoming hip-hop documentary “The Hip Hop Project.” This is a big step for the movie, especially since ThinkFilm is a widely known and respected producer and distributor of what hip-hoppers would probably refer to as underground film. The acquisition could help put positive hip-hop on a large and recognizable scale.

The documentary will follow the development of The Hip Hop Project, an NYC-based outreach program for troubled teens to express themselves through hip-hop. According to reviewers, the film pushes several positive themes while giving an eye-opening depiction of the “redemptive power” of hip-hop.

The Hip Hop Project is a decedent of Art-Start, a Presidential Service Award-winning alternative high school in NYC that helps troubled kids transform their lives with creativity, communication and confidence. Most of the teens who participate in the program are either homeless, high school dropouts, or recently released from prison. The project gives them an opportunity to work with hip-hop industry professionals who teach them how to create and market their own hip-hop albums. Noted sponsors include Queen Latifah, Russell Simmons and Bruce Willis, who along with helping to produce the movie, donated a recording studio for project participants.

The Hip Hop Project is yet another of the countless examples of positive hip-hop news and community service that are overlooked by the majority of large and legitimate media publications in this country. Please support the Hip-Hop Project, Art-Start, and their upcoming documentary. If you’re a teen in NYC, hit them up. And big ups to Latifah, Russ and Bruce for their help. Peace.