Cypher

Whether you’re a longtime listener or simply a documentary enthusiast seeking a break from the predictable monotony of musician profiles, Cypher is an experience worth seeking out.

I struggled with “Cypher,” not just because of its coy but not so cute magical thinking.

A cunning experiment in cross-genre filmmaking, “Cypher” is all fun, games and hagiography until it’s not, effectively deceiving at every conspiratorial turn.

Cypher was a wonderful way for Tierra Whack to expand her ideas of her work into another medium while also introducing herself to those who might not know her music well.

Its conceptual originality holds the attention, and many viewers will enjoy seeing various hip-hop luminaries “playing” themselves on this slippery slope.

It’s all a cleverly constructed ruse that’s a promotional piece first and foremost, but this playful hybrid experiment drums up some decent suspense and Tierra is an engaging subject.

I did enjoy this. I especially enjoyed the subtle shift where it goes from getting to know and celebrate Tierra Whack to this fictional mystery surrounding this fake documentary. It's a fun and unexpected ride.

Expertly navigates the line between real and not real, and I’m excited for the arguments that will ensue once people see this. 



As much a narrative feature as it is a doc, Cypher is a fittingly unorthodox and refreshing take on typical music documentary conventions—perfect for a rapper whose unique style (both in fashion and music) similarly defies convention.

In some passages, Cypher achieves a level of brilliance and psychological terror that becomes difficult to sustain as it winds towards its eventual conclusion.