OneFour: Against All Odds

I was ready to hate this, not being a fan of that style of music and initially it seemed that the doco was essentially glamorising criminals.

While they are indeed criminals, they are trying to better their situation and turn their lives around, and trying to give hope to their communities.

The style of music lyrically is somewhat controversial, and it's clear that Australian police don't get it. This doco has at least got cooperation and involvement from the police, but presents it in such a way that is in itself unfair - while the police's actions are undoubtedly heavy handed, it is not unfounded since they are dealing with criminals. Bringing the race argument into the discussion also seems unnecessary, and just distracts from the narrative.

In the end, it's a compelling story, told well but mostly from one perspective. You can feel a real empathy with the group members, and really hope for them to succeed, whether you like their music or message.

Very interesting look into a music group who represent a community in Australia that are apparently not welcomed by mainstream media, police, or the establishment. If you enjoy contemporary art, music, and culture this is for you. It is also a revealing insight into how far Australia has ventured into empowering Police to infringe upon civil liberties. Shocking. Overall a balanced and well produced documentary. My only wish is that it would be even better if they explored the creative or recording process more - perhaps in the follow up?

Recommended viewing, it has got me interested in finding out more.

I really enjoyed watching this documentary. Great storytelling. I hadn't really heard of Onefour prior to watching this (they are drill rappers from the outer suburbs of Sydney). This documentary touches on interesting insights into the music scene in Australia, police abuse of power and life in Western Sydney. It has interviews with a wide range of voices, including members of Onefour and their families, NSW Police and people in the music industry. Also fun to see some well known people like the Kid Laroi speak about the group and their journey. This film is definitely a must watch for anyone interested in Australian hip hop.

Wauw. If you have any interest in social issues or the music industry in general, this is a must watch. I don't think I've ever felt so frustrated and angry after watching a doc while also being inspired at the same time. The documentary depicts the struggles the Samoan community face on a day to day in Syndey. Is shows how they find music as an outlet for their battlescars and trauma. It shows how police, fueled by fear and a lack of empathy tries to portray these young men and their art as the root of all crime in Sydney. This all whilest their art is the one thing that is strengthening their community and giving a sprinkle of hope to their youth. It depicts the mental toughness these guys possess, thanks to their love for their family, community and their art. Absolute warriors that deserve to be seen by the world!✊🏽

An enlightening and engaging documentary exploring the experiences of a young rap group who have brushed with the law.

As an Australian citizen, watching these young people try to escape a life of crime through the arts and being oppressed using archaic anti organised crime laws brings a real fire to my mind. I recommend a watch whether you're a fan of the music or not. Watching as the police repeatedly overreach as a method of crushing freedom of speech shows how backwardly conservative Australia really is leaves this viewer with a stony heart.

At the end of the first viewing my mind recalls growing up in western Sydney, how the common criminal elements were restricted to drug use and domestic violence, as well as concerning rhetoric around sexual consent. This film acts as an astounding criticism and in many ways is a stark display of Sydney's complete and utter sledgehammer approach to policing and leaves the viewer wondering, why do the police never speak of tangible plans to engage with their communities.

A must watch.