Even though Craig Brewer had only directed a few films at that point, he was already making a name for himself as a standout Southern storyteller. People often mentioned Craig Brewer in the same breath as literary giants like Flannery O’Connor, William Faulkner, and Tennessee Williams—writers known for capturing the soul of the American South. But Craig Brewer brought something fresh to the table. His style felt current, alive, and deeply human. Then came Hustle & Flow in 2005, his breakout film, and suddenly everyone was talking about Craig Brewer. Critics praised him, audiences connected with his work, and it was clear he had a rare gift: the ability to make you care about characters who might otherwise be overlooked. With Craig Brewer’s storytelling, the old and the new South didn’t just coexist—they danced together in a way that felt both authentic and powerful.
When it comes to Craig Brewer’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Dolemite Is My Name (2019) as his standout work—truly the highlight of his career so far. Craig Brewer really outdid himself with that one, blending humor, heart, and a powerful performance from Eddie Murphy in a way that resonated widely. It’s no surprise that among all the movies Craig Brewer has directed, this particular film stands as his highest rated. On the other end of the spectrum, The Legend of Tarzan (2016) didn’t quite hit the same mark. While Craig Brewer brought his vision to the project, it ended up receiving more mixed or lukewarm responses, making it the lowest rated entry in Craig Brewer’s directing portfolio. Still, every filmmaker has peaks and valleys, and Craig Brewer’s journey shows both growth and bold creative choices.