Earl Simmons, better known as DMX, rose to stardom in the 90s, achieving mainstream success as both an actor and recording artist; but with his meteoric rise to fame came temptations and highly publicized legal troubles. Determined to reignite his career following his recent release from prison, Simmons confronted the mounting pressures of fatherhood, faith, and addiction, all while preparing for his ill-fated comeback tour.

Don’t Try to Understand is a captivating story about recovery and redemption, and an intimate glimpse into the life of a cultural icon. Combining archival and original footage, the film reveals the vulnerability behind the tough public image he cultivated throughout his career. Director Christopher Frierson’s astute documentary transcends the world of hip-hop and offers an unfiltered portrait of a man struggling to overcome his demons. —Sean McCoy