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Tracy Awino/Bleacher ReportNext March, fans will get a closer look at the acting debut of late rapper Pop Smoke in the film, Boogie.
On Tuesday, Focus Features production company unveiled the film’s trailer, which also stars Taylour Paige, who recently starred in Netflix’s Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
Boogie follows the coming-of-age-story of Alfred “Boogie” Chin, an Asian-American living in Queens, New York with dreams of playing in the NBA. In addition to school and a new relationship, Chin’s parents push him to obtain a scholarship at an elite college, while he prepares for a big game against his rival, Monk, played by Pop.
“No one believes in an Asian basketball player,” says Chin, as the late Pop Smoke’s “Got It On Me” plays in the background. “It’s a joke in this country. We can cook, clean, count real good, but anything else, we’re picked last.”
Boogie marks the directorial debut of acclaimed writer and TV personality, Eddie Huang, who also executive produced ABC’s Fresh Off the Boat. It was filmed prior to Pop’s death in February 2020. The “Woo” rapper was shot and killed during a home invasion in Hollywood Hills, where he was staying.
Months after his death, 50 Cent executive produced the rapper’s posthumous debut album, Shoot for the Stars Aim for the Moon, which was released in early July. A deluxe edition was released later on what would have been Pop’s 21st birthday on July 20th.
Boogie hits theaters March 5.
By Rachel George
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