BELLY — Hype Williams and Soul II Soul bring hip hop "Back To Life"
Summary
This MUBI Podcast episode explores the cultural impact of Hype Williams’ 1998 film *Belly*, focusing on its iconic opening scene featuring Soul to Soul’s “Back to Life.” Host Rico Galeano interviews co-writer Anthony Bodden and director Akinola Davies Jr. to discuss how the movie’s surreal visuals and hip-hop roots influenced cinema, despite initial critical confusion. The discussion highlights the film’s legacy in shaping black representation on screen and its enduring influence on music videos and fashion.
Topics discussed
Intro: Soul to Soul's birth at the Africa Center club
Hype Williams' rise as a luxury music video director
Hype's artistic influences: graffiti, comics, and cartoons
Anthony Bodden's coma and the origin of the Belly script
Belly's plot, Y2K themes, and apocalyptic vision
Mubi promo and the creation of Soul to Soul's Back to Life
The iconic nightclub robbery scene and its musical tension
Belly's mixed reception and Magic Johnson's boycott
Belly's lasting influence on fashion, art, and filmmakers
Legacy, credits, and preview of next episode
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