A Son's Quest for Answers: 'Understanding Christopher Wallace' Uncovers the Man Behind Notorious B.I.G.

Photo Courtesy Eduardo Donoso

C.J. Wallace, the son of rap icon Notorious B.I.G., is set to explore the story of his late father in the documentary "Understanding Christopher Wallace." Produced by Time Studios, the film aims to offer an intimate and revealing look into the life and lasting impact of the legendary rapper.

Notorious B.I.G., born Christopher George Latore Wallace, rose to prominence in the mid-1990s as one of the most influential figures in hip-hop. Hailing from the gritty streets of Brooklyn, his raw and poetic lyricism captivated audiences worldwide. Tragically, his life was cut short on March 9, 1997, when he was fatally shot in Los Angeles at the age of 24.

"Understanding Christopher Wallace," announced on Tuesday by the studio, purports to go beyond the surface to explore the complex and multifaceted journey of Notorious B.I.G., as seen through the eyes of his son, Wallace, who was born just five months before his father's untimely death.

From his humble beginnings to the bright lights of fame, the documentary weaves together personal interviews, intimate conversations and rare archival footage to provide a comprehensive portrait of the man behind the music. Through the lens of his son's perspective, viewers will gain insights into the personal experiences and reflections of Notorious B.I.G.

Wallace is doing the documentary in an effort to understand the legacy of the father he barely knew. Reflecting on the project, he shared his aspirations of honoring Notorious B.I.G.'s hopes and dreams while forging his own path in the music industry.

"Over the past few years, I realized my personal journey is connected to understanding who Christopher George Latore Wallace was outside of his big rap persona," Wallace said in a statement. "I am on a journey to fully understand the world he lived in and the massive impact he had on American and Black history, and by doing so, I can ensure that I honor his hopes and dreams while I build and create my own legacy for future generations of Wallaces."

Joining Wallace in this exploration of his father's legacy are an array of notable figures who were part of Notorious B.I.G.'s inner circle. Artists such as Faith Evans, Lil Kim, Jadakiss, Lil Cease and others provide firsthand accounts and personal anecdotes that shed light on the man behind the music, offering a deeper understanding of Notorious B.I.G.'s life and his impact on the industry.

Under the skillful direction of Vikram Gandhi, known for his thought-provoking documentaries, including the critically acclaimed "69: The Sage of Danny Hernandez," the film promises to delve deep into the psyche of Notorious B.I.G. and reveal the complexities of his artistry.

The release date for "Understanding Christopher Wallace" has yet to be announced.