One thing is certain: he has been embraced by the cultural mainstream in a way that is unprecedented for a rapper. What is in question is the nature of Eminem’s art and image, and its significance. He is a multitalented artist: a wildly inventive rap lyricist, a charismatic performer, and now an effective actor (essentially playing a heroicized version of himself). Love him or loathe him, Eminem is unquestionably an impressive cultural player. “Put Anthrax on a Tampax and slap you till you can’t stand.” - Eminem, “Superman” (emphasis added) But it’s a movie of hope…” - Craig Wilson, USA Today And I’m a farm boy from Upstate New York with a weakness for James Taylor…Was Eminem whitewashed, made to be more likable than his reputation as a homophobe, misogynist, an all-around unlikable performer who spews his offensive lyrics across the airwaves? Probably. “I loved (8 Mile)…probably one of the best movies I’ve seen in years. 8 Reasons Eminem’s Popularity is a Disaster for Women
