The murder of rapper The Notorious B.I.G. (as well as Tupac Shakur) remains significant not only for its devastating impact on the music community but also because of the immense mystery and suspicion that remains around his death. Even today the case remains unsolved, and the new movie CITY OF LIES with Johnny Depp and Forest Whitaker will center on the men who spent years trying to solve the mystery and bring someone to justice. You can now watch the first trailer above, which features intrigue, suspense, and at least one awesome desk flip.
Read the official synopsis below:
Based on the true story of one of the most notorious and unsolved cases in recent memory, CITY OF LIES is a provocative thriller revealing a never-before-seen look at the infamous murder of The Notorious B.I.G. shortly following the death of Tupac Shakur. L.A.P.D. detective Russell Poole (Johnny Depp) has spent years trying to solve his biggest case, but after two decades, the investigation remains open. "Jack" Jackson (Forest Whitaker), a reporter desperate to save his reputation and career, is determined to find out why. In search of the truth, the two team up and unravel a growing web of institutional corruption and lies. Relentless in their hunt, these two determined men threaten to uncover the conspiracy and crack the foundation of the L.A.P.D. and an entire city. Based on the nonfiction book LAbyrinth, written by Randall Sullivan.
The movie was directed by Brad Furman (THE INFILTRAITOR, THE LINCOLN LAWYER) and written by Christian Contreras and based on the nonfiction book “Labyrinth" by Randall Sullivan.
What do you guys think? The movie looks like a solidly crafted detective drama with fine work from its two leads, and one that will likely shed some light on this tragic event. There are also themes throughout the movie in regards to the police and black citizens, giving the movie a topical pulse that will surely spark a conversation. Here's to hoping the movie doesn't squander its potential and become another, ho-hum mystery thriller.
CITY OF LIES arrives in theaters September 7.