How Ice Cube's Son Worked the Frown to Play His Dad 'Straight Outta Compton'

As Ice Cube's son, O'Shea Jackson Jr already had an advantage in portraying him on screen in "Straight Outta Compton," a biopic about the rise and fall of the 1980s-90s gangster rap group his father founded, NWA.

Still, the 23-year-old was committed to mastering the actor-rapper's every nuance.

“I’d go around frowning for no reason,” the budding actor tells the Associated Press of how he prepared for his audition.

No doubt his acting ability and nearly-identical looks that he shares with the "21 Jump Street" star helped him land the part. It probably didn't hurt that the 46-year-old serves as producer on the drama.

"He just owned it," Cube shares. "I’m just proud of the production. I have never been this happy for any project that I’ve ever done."

"Straight Outta Compton" follows the true journey of Cube, Dr. Dre (also the film's producer), and NWA's original lineup, as they formed the platinum-selling hip hop group that exposed the gritty horror of their South Central Los Angeles streets. Police brutality, gang violence and the objectification of women were subjects of the music that reflected their life experience.

"Straight Outta Compton" hits theaters Aug. 14. Watch the trailer below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rsbWEF1Sju0