Look at Me: XXXTentacion
By Sabrina McFarland,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Timely docu about singer's tragic story; language, violence.
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Look at Me: XXXTentacion
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Based on 4 parent reviews
What's the Story?
In LOOK AT ME: XXXTENTACION, the native Floridian music artist born Jahseh Onfroy skyrockets to the industry's top. X evolves into a savvy businessperson after being primarily raised by a teen mom who worked to provide for her child. Fans declare that X's music has helped save, manage, and motivate their lives during bouts of depression. X says the followers help him too when he's not doing great. The feel-good support, however, takes an unexpected turn in X's life.
Is It Any Good?
With archival concert footage, family photos, and firsthand interviews, this documentary shares a compelling view of the life of a versatile young music star. Look at Me: XXXTentacion is directed by Sabaah Folayan (Whose Streets?) and executive-produced by Cleopatra Bernard, who is also the singer's mom. "I decided to make this documentary," says Bernard, "because I felt like my son's story needed to be told. He was my little Tweety Bird ... just a calm, beautiful baby," although there were reported tumultuous times between the two. "As long as I ate, and as long as I had clothes, and as long as I had a place to stay, that was the most important thing to her," X recalls in an initial comment about the care he got from his mom. X adds, however, that "she was never able to emotionally nurture me."
X had behavioral issues at home, headed off to live with his grandmother, and was diagnosed as bipolar. But, notes colleague and producer John Cunningham, "I almost felt like he knew how to relate to kids more than he did other people. He saw the emotional phenomenon in children, that they were pure and unable to judge and unable to have hatred in their heart." For kids and teens, Look at Me: XXXTentacion merits notice for important discussions about the challenges of growing up in a 21st century world.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the communication skills of XXXTentacion in Look at Me: XXXTentacion. How do the singer and cast demonstrate perseverance and teamwork? Why are these important character strengths?
In the film, there are reported allegations of domestic abuse against X, which the singer denies. Are you able to support the public persona of a celebrity who has criminal claims made about their private life? Why, or why not?
Families can also talk about mental health and the way it's addressed here. Why is it important to talk about this topic, especially if you're worried about a friend or family member? Note: If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health issues, contact the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 800-950-NAMI, or if in a crisis, text "NAMI" to 741741.
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: May 26, 2022
- Cast: XXXTentacion , Cleopatra Bernard , Solomon Sobande
- Director: Sabaah Folayan
- Inclusion Information: Black directors
- Studio: Hulu
- Genre: Documentary
- Topics: Arts and Dance , History , Music and Sing-Along
- Character Strengths: Communication , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time: 114 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: June 4, 2022
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