We've never been fans of the Notorious B.I.G, nor are we familiar with his music. But this biopic of the famous rapper who was killed in a drive-by shooting in 1997 has certainly piqued our interest.

Contrary to possible expectations of this being a blaxploitative film, Notorious is actually an even-handed and straightforward biopic about the life and death of one of the most influential rappers of all time. Director George Tillman Jr crafts a respectful film out of some sensational material, and wisely skirts the controversy surrounding the rapper's death.

The film begins is Brooklyn, where Notorious grew up. As a boy, he is teased constantly about his weight and subsequently falls into drug-dealing. Eventually, he learns to rhyme and catches the attention of not just his friends and neighbours - but Sean (Puffy) Combs himself. Combs grooms him into a recording artiste and the Notorious B.I.G. quickly finds chart success and personal happiness - until the tragic death…

The performances by the black cast, which includes Oscar nominee Angela Bassett and Derek Luke, are very good. Real-life rapper Jamal Woolard, who plays the Notorious B.I.G, is surprisingly charismatic and convincing too for a first-time actor.

Notorious is certainly not a film for those of us who don't listen to rap. But those who do won't be disappointed with it.