Is The Get Down Based on a True Story? The Get Down Cast, Plot, and Ending Explained
by Priyanka P | Updated Aug 03, 2023
Is the Get Down Based on a True Story?
Yes, "The Get Down" is a Netflix series that is partially based on real events and historical context, making it a semi-fictionalized account of true events. The show is created by filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, known for his visually stunning and music-filled films such as "Romeo + Juliet," "Moulin Rouge!," and "The Great Gatsby."
"The Get Down" takes place in the South Bronx during a time when New York City was on the brink of bankruptcy and explores how hip-hop, punk, and disco music emerged during that era.While the show draws inspiration from real events and historical figures, it also incorporates fictional elements to create a compelling narrative.
Some of the characters and storylines are entirely fictional, but they are woven into the backdrop of real events. One notable real-life character in the series is Grandmaster Flash, a pioneer of hip-hop, who also served as a producer for the show and is portrayed by Mamoudou Athie.
The involvement of real-life figures and artists in the show's production adds to its authenticity. Nas, a renowned rapper, and producer, is also part of the creative team and provides rap narration for the series, performed by Daveed Diggs. Nas expressed that the show stays true to the early hip-hop scene, featuring both well-known figures and lesser-known individuals who were part of that historical period.
The show's creator, Baz Luhrmann, aimed to achieve a balance between myth and history, blending real experiences with fictional storytelling. He wanted "The Get Down" to be a collaborative effort that authentically captured the essence of the time and place.
While not every aspect of the series is historically accurate, the show's team, including Grandmaster Flash, praised its efforts to come "extremely close" to the reality of the era."The Get Down" is a semi-fictional series that draws inspiration from real events and people involved in the birth of hip-hop, punk, and disco in the South Bronx during a crucial period in New York City's history.
It creatively blends historical accuracy with fictional elements to provide an engaging and immersive portrayal of the early hip-hop scene.
The Get Down Cast
Justice Smith
Ezekiel "Zeke" "Books" Figuero
Shameik Moore
Curtis "Shaolin Fantastic" "Shao"
Herizen F. Guardiola
Mylene Cruz
Skylan Brooks
Ronald "Ra-Ra" Kipling
Tremaine Brown Jr.
Miles "Boo-Boo" Kipling
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II
Clarence "Cadillac" Caldwell
Jimmy Smits
Francisco "Papa Fuerte" Cruz
Jaden Smith
Marcus "Dizzee" Kipling
Daveed Diggs
Adult Ezekiel "Mr. Books" Figuero
Giancarlo Esposito
Pastor Ramon Cruz
Stefanée Martin
Yolanda Kipling
Shyrley Rodriguez
Regina
Mamoudou Athie
Grandmaster Flash
Karen Aldridge
Adele Kipling
Kevin Corrigan
Jackie Moreno
Brandon J. Dirden
Leon
Michel Gill
Herbert Gunns
Zabryna Guevara
Lydia Cruz
Ron Cephas Jones
Winston Kipling
Judy Marte
Wanda
Evan Parke
Wolf
Salma Salinas
Angela Cruz
Sal Rendino
Stanley Kelly
Yolonda Ross
Ms. Green
Tory Devon Smith
Little Wolf
Lillias White
Fat Annie
Frank Wood
Ed Koch
Lee Tergesen
Inspector Moran
Eric Bogosian
Roy Asheton
Eric D. Hill Jr.
DJ Kool Herc
Noah Le Gros
Thor
Qaasim Middleton
DJ Big Planet
RayJonaldy Rodriguez
Silent Carlito
Khalil Middleton
MC Luke Skywalker Cage
Julia Garner
Claudia Gunns
Barrington Walters Jr.
Doo-Wop
Jeremie Harris
Shane Vincent
Okieriete Onaodowan
Afrika Bambaataa
Jamie Jackson
Robert Stigwood
Actor
Character
The Get Down Where to Watch?
"The Get Down" is available exclusively on the streaming platform Netflix. Created by Baz Luhrmann and Stephen Adly Guirgis, the show tells the captivating story of the rise of hip-hop music in the gritty streets of 1970s New York City. With Nas as the narrator and contributions from Catherine Martin and hip-hop historian Nelson George, the series boasts an impressive lineup of talent.
Viewers can immerse themselves in the vibrant world of hip-hop, disco, and punk as they follow the journey of Ezekiel "Zeke" Figuero, a talented young artist, and his friends as they navigate the challenges of their tumultuous surroundings and pursue their dreams.
To watch "The Get Down," one must have a Netflix subscription, and the show can be streamed on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, computers, smart TVs, and gaming consoles. With its rich storytelling and superb production, "The Get Down" offers an enthralling experience for anyone interested in the origins of hip-hop and the cultural tapestry of 1970s New York City.
The Get Down Plot
"The Get Down" is set in the South Bronx during the late 1970s and revolves around the birth of hip-hop, disco, and punk music in a time of economic and social upheaval. The story follows Ezekiel "Zeke" Figuero, a talented young poet and aspiring rapper, who becomes entangled in the world of music and culture alongside his friends.
Zeke meets Mylene Cruz, an ambitious and talented singer with dreams of becoming a disco star, despite her conservative and religious upbringing. Their budding romance faces challenges as Zeke's love for hip-hop clashes with Mylene's desire for a different musical path.
Alongside Zeke and Mylene are their friends and fellow music enthusiasts, including the unpredictable and enigmatic street kid Curtis "Shaolin Fantastic," loyal and protective Ronald "Ra-Ra" Kipling, mechanically-minded Miles "Boo-Boo" Kipling, and the tough and rebellious Regina, among others.
As they navigate the rough and crime-ridden streets of the South Bronx, these young characters find solace and expression through their music, dance, and art. The series delves into the challenges they face in pursuit of their dreams, the friendships they forge, and the cultural movements they help shape.
"The Get Down" provides an immersive and nostalgic glimpse into the birth of hip-hop and its transformative impact on music and culture, as well as the personal journeys of the characters involved. It is a gripping and authentic portrayal of a defining era in the history of music and the resilient spirit of the South Bronx.
The Get Down Ending Explained
The ending of "The Get Down" is a culmination of the characters' journeys and their pursuit of their dreams amidst the backdrop of a broken 1970s New York. The final episode, "Only From Exile Can We Come Home," brings resolution to various storylines and leaves some aspects open to interpretation.
The episode showcases Mylene's rise to stardom as she finally asserts herself against Roy Stigwood, demanding creative control over her music and a significant share of the profits. Her strength and determination shine through, and she becomes a star in her own right.
On the other hand, Ezekiel Figueroa's journey leads him to be accepted at Yale, symbolizing his path to a brighter future beyond the Bronx.The climax also involves the dramatic reunion and reconciliation of the Get Down Brothers. After facing challenges and betrayals, they come together to confront Fat Annie and regain their creative independence.
However, their victory comes at a heavy cost as Shaolin Fantastic sacrifices himself to protect the group, forever changing the dynamic within the brotherhood.The ending is bittersweet and leaves room for interpretation, with the show embracing an ambiguous note.
While some characters' fates are clearer, others remain uncertain, allowing viewers to contemplate the characters' futures and the impact of their decisions. "The Get Down" ends on a powerful and emotional note, showcasing the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the characters in the face of adversity, making it a memorable and thought-provoking conclusion to the series.
The Get Down Trailer
Is the Get Down Based on a True Story? - FAQs
Yes, "The Get Down" is a Netflix series that is partially based on real events and historical context, making it a semi-fictionalized account of true events.
"The Get Down" is a Netflix series that narrates the rise of hip-hop and disco in 1970s New York, blending real events with fictional characters to create an immersive and captivating storyline.
The main characters include Ezekiel "Zeke" Figuero, Mylene Cruz, Shaolin Fantastic, and other members of the Get Down Brothers, as they pursue their dreams in a world filled with music and challenges.
You can watch "The Get Down" on Netflix, where it is available for streaming with a subscription.
Yes, "The Get Down" received positive reviews from critics and audiences for its unique storytelling, music, and portrayal of the vibrant cultural scene in the 1970s.