Review: Never Die Alone

Never Die Alone

"Now look to the left!"


In recent years, we've all been bombarded by the fusion of urban culture and mainstream media, and in the process, the hood has gone big time. It's now a common sight to see "DUBS" in the 'burbs that kids have thrown on their mother's Explorers. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but we should really consider what people will think of us as they look back at the beginning of this century. Will we be laughed at? Will we be reveled?

In an adaptation of Donald Goines' novel, Director Ernest Dickerson gives us something for people to look back on us upon and revel. In a successful combination of overexposed film and a gritty storyline along with operatic theme music, Never Die Alone is a powerful look at life in the inner city. Personally, I think the story is brilliant.

We begin with DMX as King David, who after 10 years has returned to New York to "pay his dues." King David seeks redemption, as his departure previously was on less than amicable terms. After running off with 15 large in drugs of the dealer Moon's goods, King David boldly appears in a bar run by Moon to return not only the 15 grand that he owes, but another 15 grand in interest. Moon sends 2 lackeys to receive this money, but the shit literally hits the fan when there is an obvious history between King David and a young Mike. In what sets up the main outline of the film, Mike kills King David and at the same time King David kills Mike's accomplice, Blue. At the same time, David Arquette, who plays Paul Paskoff, being in the wrong place at the right time is begged by a dying King David to be taken to the hospital. At the same time, Paul is pleaded by King David to not let him die alone. After King David passes in the operating room, Paskoff learns that King David has bequeathed all his worldly possessions including his car and money to Paul, wishing him to give him a proper burial.

In doing so, Paul drives off a "dead man's car," finding that over the past 10 years in his exile, King David has recorded his life on audio tapes, and we catch flashbacks of his life as Paul plays their respective tapes. It is here that we learn that not all drug dealers are soulless, and that no King can rule forever.

Say what you will, but there are powerful images and scenes in Never Die Alone. There is also a strong recurring theme of the vicious cycle of revenge. There is betrayal, love and loyalty. DMX gives us a strong performance and shows why he's so respected in the industry, he works hard and his passion shows though. I highly recommend it. Just look out for the obligatory accompanying soundtrack featuring prominent rap artists.


out of 5 Riddicks.