Chi-Raq 2015

In the South Side of Chicago, a fierce battle unfolds between two rival factions: the Spartans, headed by the charismatic rapper and gang leader Demetrius Dupree, known as “Chi-Raq,” and the opposing Trojans, commanded by the formidable gang lord Cyclops. As the tale unfolds through the eyes of Dolemedes, we witness the chaos and violence that permeates the streets, culminating in tragic events that deeply affect Demetrius’s partner, Lysistrata. Her disillusionment grows after a series of harrowing incidents, including a shootout at Demetrius’s concert, a devastating arson attack on their home while they share an intimate moment, and the heartbreaking loss of young Patti, whose death unfolds as the tragic outcome of a gang-related shooting, tragically linked to Irene.

Seeking solace and guidance, Lysistrata moves in with Miss Helen Worthy, a passionate advocate for peace and non-violence who inspires her to learn about Leymah Gbowee. This remarkable woman led a notable peace movement during the Second Liberian Civil War, famous for initiating a sex strike to compel men to cease hostilities. Bolstered by Worthy’s encouragement and Gbowee’s legacy, Lysistrata convenes a critical meeting with the lovers of both the Spartans and the Trojans. They collectively vow to withhold sexual relations until the gangs agree to lay down their arms, coining the impactful phrase, > “No Peace, No Pussy.”

What begins as a bold initiative rapidly escalates into a city-wide movement, with women from various walks of life joining the boycott. However, despite this overwhelming support, both gangs remain entrenched in their violent ways. At a heart-wrenching funeral for Irene’s daughter, Patti, Lysistrata engages in a poignant conversation with local preacher Fr. Mike Corridan, who passionately condemns the socioeconomic systems profiting from the South Side’s turmoil. Recognizing that the issue extends beyond mere gang disputes, Lysistrata and her allies ingeniously infiltrate a military armory, capturing it without a fight, led by General King Kong.

This audacious act triggers a national uproar, as the military and police surround the facility. Yet, they are barred from taking action against the 75 unarmed women inside, who hold no hostages. Their actions garner global attention, inspiring women worldwide to initiate their own versions of sex strikes in solidarity. Attempting to coax the women out, Mayor McCloud and Commissioner Blades deploy seductive music, but the plan backfires spectacularly when the women discover earplugs and the men become overwhelmed with desire.

After three months of restraint, both Demetrius and Cyclops’s gangs begin to question their commitment, stricken by the absence of intimacy and given time to reflect on their lives. Although Demetrius remains adamant about the Spartans, he eventually agrees to meet with Lysistrata after the boycott influences prominent figures, including the Mayor’s wife and the First Lady of the United States. A deal is brokered, stipulating that the two lovers will meet in bed, and whoever achieves climax first must concede to the other’s demands.

However, just as the stakes are about to be raised, Cyclops interrupts, announcing that the Trojans are ready to disarm. This pivotal moment leads to a formal signing with Lysistrata, Mayor McCloud, and Cyclops to end the violence and establish new hospitals and trauma centers. Despite Demetrius’s initial reluctance to sign, he is ultimately swayed by Worthy’s compelling story about the loss of her daughter, culminating in Jamel Dupree confessing to the devastating role he played in the tragedy. With a heavy heart, he chooses to surrender, acknowledging the need for change.