John Singleton paved the way for South Central Los Angeles gang-banger films such as Menace II Society with this, his debut film, all about the hard knock life in the Hood. Written and directed at the tender age of 22, Singleton gave the world an insightful look into African American gang culture in the early 90's. The film received critical acclaim, but more importantly, it made America stand up and recognise what was going on in poverty-stricken, minority populated suburbs. Iconic Moment: A prime example of the film's important message is the death of poor old potential-ridden Ricky. The moment serves as a stark reminder of how young lives can be torn apart (or in this case taken away) by Gang violence that catches up with those who want nothing more than to distance themselves from such. This scene may have been parodied beyond belief by now, but seeing Ricky take a few shotgun shells to the chest over a gang war he doesn't have any involvement in still has the power to shock.
