SummaryA genuine crowd-pleaser, Dave Chappelle's Block Party spotlights comedy superstar Dave Chappelle as he presents a Brooklyn neighborhood with its very own once-in-a-lifetime free block party. (Rogue Pictures)
SummaryA genuine crowd-pleaser, Dave Chappelle's Block Party spotlights comedy superstar Dave Chappelle as he presents a Brooklyn neighborhood with its very own once-in-a-lifetime free block party. (Rogue Pictures)
The comedian has had his ups and downs recently, but the film is pure up, a wonderfully genial and inclusive record -- not that the music is devoid of anger or social protest -- of a day-long, freestyle show.
Different from most motion pictures, this movie gave it's audience an unique sense of exuberant life with it's fantastic independent spirit. It had a cool premise, to bring the people of Brooklyn a surprise concert of many extremely talented performers (Kanye West, Mos Def, The Roots) as a random act of kindness. This movie shows us what a "Community" really is in other people's eyes. This film is definitely worth a look as it is one of my favorites, to have a unique social theme and sprinkle it with some humor. Inspirational film that is actually quite heart-warming. MUST SEE
There is a clear festive buzz, as attendees laugh, bob and listen to Chappelle's impish, inventive comedy, and some of the best music hip-hop has to offer.
No background material is going to help the viewer who isn't already aware of why a Fugees reunion is such a cool thing to witness, but it's impossible not to get caught up in this party's good vibe.
If you like REAL hip hop and Chappelle, you will like this for sure. As he tires to set up a block party he encounters personalities in which he can create comedy. Common people of the neighborhood all come together for this epic block party. Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Jill Scott, Erika Badu and even the Fugees get together for the only time they reunited. Not sure if I would have saw it in a theater and paid $10, but for a watch its worth it to see Dave being funny.
Liking this movie will likely involve, in order: a) being a fan of Talib Kweli, Mos Def, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, etc. b) being a Dave Chapelle fan c) knowing that this is a concert documentary, not a comedy show. I watched it meeting each of those criteria, and I enjoyed it. The film really captured the spontaneity of Dave making the event happen. Dave seemed to try to invite anyone and everyone that might be involved in his life to any degree, regardless of whether or not they already like hip-hop/neo soul music. On stage, Dave was mostly just hosting the musical guests, and there wasn't any formal stand-up act. You get to see the artists backstage with Dave in a more candid, personal light, and the film takes on his personality. My favorite parts are when Dave is rehearsing with the Roots band/Mos Def for a little routine for the concert. It's not a perfectly crafted documentary, but overall, it's just a fun time with ordinary people, allowing you to see many of the performers as regular people as well. If none of this interests you, then don't bother watching.