Chris Rock has been one of my favourite standup comedians for years. He’s always sharp, has valid criticism about things in society and always has some quoatable moments that will stay with you. Besides his work on the podium he has worked in the world of movies as well as writer, producer, actor and directory. He has written, directed and stars in Top Five. A title which reference his top five of best rappers ever.
The movie is about Andre Allen (Chris Rock), a standup comedian who wants to prove himself as a serious actor. He has had a lot of success in the past with his role in the “Hammy the Bear” trilogy (in which he played a police bear) and his audience wants a fourth movie, but he has decided to make Uprize. It is about Haitian slaves who start a revolution, but the project seems doomed from the start. His upcoming “dream marriage” with reality star Erica Long (Gabrielle Union) is the only reason the media is still interested in him.
To prove that he is still relevant he agrees in a day-long interview by Chelsea Brown (Rosario Dawson), who joins him everywhere. The result is conversations about elections, relationships, truth, alcoholism and much more.
Top Five could be compared to a movie from the “Before..” trilogy, but filled with ingredients which made Rock so successful on stage. There are many funny (and sometimes shocking) situations, real conversations, drama in the form of addiction and criticism about the way society looks at celebrities. The chemistry between Dawson and Rock is present, which makes it fun to spend a “day” with these two. Because Allen has so many similarities with Rock in real-life you sometimes forget you are watching a movie. With Top Five Chris Rock tries to prove that he’s still relevant, just like his character, and manages to completely succeed in doing so.
And in case you are interested in my personal top five, this would be it at the moment:
5. Chino XL
4. Eminem
3. Jay-Z
2. Drake
1. Kanye West
Great review. This was one of my favorites of 2014. The writing is superb!
Yeah, had been hearing good things about this and after seeing it couldn’t do anything but agree.
I went into this with zero expectations, and came out impressed by what I saw. Rock proves he’s got the chops to make a really funny, entertaining film. Good review, a solid 8 is spot on.
Yeah, wouldn’t mind him making a sequel to this with lots of talking.
Great review! I enjoyed this one as well. Rock has also been one of my favorite stand up comedians for years.
What’s your favorite bit from his stand up?
It’s funny, it’s Rosario Dawson that’s drawing me to watching this film and not Chris Rock! Enjoyed his stand-up, from years back, but not been a huge fan of his films. Not yet seen his film with Julie Delpy though.
Yeah, she’s usually a reason for me to check out movies, she was also awesome in Daredevil. Generally his films were disappointing, but this one stands out. That movie with Julie Delpy is worth checking out as well.