Boyz n the Hood is a 1991 American teen drama film directed by John Singleton. It was his directorial debut and became a landmark film in African American cinema. The movie is set in South Central Los Angeles and focuses on the lives of three young men: Tre Styles (played by Cuba Gooding Jr.), Ricky Baker (Morris Chestnut), and Doughboy (Ice Cube), as they navigate the challenges of growing up in a neighborhood plagued by gang violence, drugs, and systemic inequality.

The film explores themes of friendship, family, survival, and the impact of environment on individuals. Tre's father, Furious Styles (Laurence Fishburne), serves as a strong influence on Tre's life, offering guidance in contrast to the struggles faced by Ricky and Doughboy.

Boyz n the Hood received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and performances. It was praised for addressing serious social issues and for offering an honest portrayal of inner-city life. The film was also a commercial success and helped to propel the careers of several of its actors.

The movie is widely regarded as one of the best films of the 1990s and remains an influential piece of cinema in the genre of urban dramas. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Director for Singleton, who became the youngest person ever nominated for the category at the time.