Beyond Beats and Rhymes takes an in-depth look at manhood in rap music and hip-hopculture—where creative genius, poetic beauty, and mad beats collide with misogyny, violenceand homophobia. This documentary is a “loving critique” of certain disturbing developments inrap music culture from the point of view of a fan who challenges the art form’s representationsof masculinity.
Some points to consider:1. In the opening of the film, filmmaker Bryon Hurt says, “What I am trying to do is get us men
to take a hard look at ourselves.”
Do you feel he succeeded? Why or why not? 

2. Do you agree with Michael Eric Dyson’s statement, “The notion of violent masculinity is at theheart of American identity”? What examples can you think of to support or refute this
Some points to consider:1. In the opening of the film, filmmaker Bryon Hurt says, “What I am trying to do is get us men
to take a hard look at ourselves.”
Do you feel he succeeded? Why or why not? 

2. Do you agree with Michael Eric Dyson’s statement, “The notion of violent masculinity is at theheart of American identity”? What examples can you think of to support or refute this
notion? 

3. Media educator Sut Jhally suggests that, “hip-hop culture is not separate from the rest ofAmerican culture…the objectified female bodies are everywhere.” If hip-hop music is anattempt to hold a mirror up to American society, what can we learn about the value of
women’s bodies in mainstream media? 

4. Professor Jelani Cobb argues that, “music videos have taken
a view of women of color that isnot radically different from the views of 19th century white slave owners.” What “viewof women” is Cobb describing? In what other ways can you identify the legacy of slavery
within hip-hop culture? 

5. While images of homosexuality have become increasingly common in mainstream media,homophobic slurs continue to be found throughout hip-hop lyrics. Why do you thinkhip-hop has become one of the last art forms to allow an openly hostile stance on
homosexuality? 

6. Why do you think that hip hop is so popular with white males? Do they experience the musicin the same way or derive the same meanings as youth of color? Why or why not?
7. Do you believe that hip hop can be a force for social change? If so, give examples of artists or
7. Do you believe that hip hop can be a force for social change? If so, give examples of artists or
music. If not, explain why
Project does not have
