Watch I Am Shakespeare

I Am Shakespeare (The Henry Green Story) is a 2017 documentary film that explores the life of Henry Green, who has been dubbed the "world's first rapper" and "the street Shakespeare." The film delves into his background and how he was able to blaze a trail as a writer and performer in the British hip-hop scene, drawing inspiration from the works of William Shakespeare.

The film is set against the backdrop of Green's hometown of Bristol, England, which serves as an iconic location for both his life and his art. Interviews with Green's family and friends shed light on his upbringing and how he was able to navigate the challenges of growing up in a working-class neighborhood.

The film is structured around key moments in Green's life, beginning with his discovery of Shakespeare's work as a teenager. Green was drawn to the themes of tragedy and struggle in Shakespeare's plays, and saw parallels between his own experiences and those depicted in the plays. He began writing his own poems and lyrics, using Shakespeare's works as a jumping-off point for his own artistic expression.

As Green's talent developed, he began collaborating with other musicians in Bristol's hip-hop scene, putting on shows and releasing albums that gained critical acclaim. The film features clips from some of Green's performances, showcasing his talent as a lyricist and performer.

The film also touches on some of the challenges Green faced in his career, including racism and bigotry in the music industry. Despite these obstacles, Green continued to push forward, using his platform to spread messages of hope and resilience to his fans.

Throughout the documentary, Green's love of Shakespeare remains a constant theme. He views Shakespeare as a way to connect with people from all walks of life, and sees the Bard's works as a means of exploring the complexities of the human experience.

The film's underlying message is one of perseverance and determination. Green's story is not just one of artistic success, but also of personal triumph over adversity. Through his music, he was able to give voice to the struggles of his community, and inspire others to believe in themselves and their own abilities.

Overall, I Am Shakespeare (The Henry Green Story) is a compelling portrait of a groundbreaking artist whose work has inspired countless others. The film is insightful, inspiring, and thoroughly engaging, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers long after the credits roll.

I Am Shakespeare is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.5.