Copyright Criminals (2009)

Name: Copyright Criminals
Genre: Music, Documentary
Released: 2009
Duration: 65 min
Rating: 6.8
Cast: Aesop Rock, George Clinton, Chuck D, El-P, Sage Francis

1h 5m United States of America

Music Documentary

Plot

Copyright Criminals delves into the complex world of musical sampling, exploring its artistic significance and the contentious issues surrounding copyright law and financial gain. The documentary chronicles hip-hop's evolution from New York's streets to a thriving multibillion-dollar industry. For over three decades, pioneering artists and producers have creatively repurposed snippets of existing music in their work. However, as legal battles intensified, the term “borrowed melody” shifted to “copyright infringement.” Featuring iconic figures like Public Enemy and De La Soul, the film also highlights emerging talents from labels like Definitive Jux and Rhymesayers, offering a comprehensive look at hip-hop's impact.

Cast

Aesop Rock George Clinton Chuck D El-P Sage Francis Pam the Funsktress Bobbito Garcia Miho Hatori Shock G Mix Master Mike Prefuse 73 DJ Q-Bert Pete Rock Hank Shocklee DJ Spooky