Watch Monkey Hustle

Monkey Hustle is a 1976 American crime drama movie that takes a deep dive into the African American community of Chicago's South Side. Directed by Arthur Marks, the movie features Yaphet Kotto as a shrewd small-time hustler and his relationship with a group of teenagers who are trying to make a living by hustling in the streets of Chicago.

The film revolves around the character of Professor Irwin Corey, who starts a race-baiting campaign against the African American community living in Chicago's South Side. The campaign involves the city council evicting the residents of a black neighborhood to make way for a new project, the Polar Land theme park.

Enter Robert L. Sinclair (Yaphet Kotto), a streetwise character who is keen on making a quick buck. He spots the opportunity to hustle some of the visitors to the Polar Land amusement park, and teaches a group of teenagers the tricks of the trade. The teenagers are led by a young boy named Timothy (Kirk Calloway), who is trying to his mother and his younger brother by any means.

Sinclair not only teaches them how to hustle, but he also mentors them and helps them understand the value of teamwork and camaraderie. Sinclair's ultimate goal is to help them break free from the cycle of poverty and make a better life for themselves.

Throughout the movie, Monkey Hustle touches on themes such as racism, poverty, and the struggle for social justice. The movie documents the daily struggles of the African American community living in the inner-city, and provides a glimpse into their world.

Yaphet Kotto gives an excellent performance as the smooth-talking street hustler who tries to do right by the people around him. Kirk Calloway as Timothy is equally impressive in his portrayal of a young boy who is trying to find his way in a tough world.

The movie's pacing is slow at times, but it effectively captures the mundane struggles of the Chicago's South Side residents. The use of humor and wit is well-placed and doesn't detract from the movie's messages.

Overall, Monkey Hustle is an excellent portrayal of the African American community's daily struggles in the inner-city. The movie is a poignant reminder that there is more to life than the color of one's skin, and that despite hardships, there is always hope for a better future.