KRT CampusCOLUMBUS, Ohio – The formula is anything but complex: Give Dave Chappelle a video camera and a microphone and hilarity ensues. This is the basic premise behind the comedic genius’ new documentary, “Dave Chappelle’s Block Party.”
Directed by Michel Gondry (“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”), the film documents a virtual hip-hop Woodstock thrown in Brooklyn, N.Y., in September 2004 by none other than Chappelle himself. Mixing multi-faceted stories with live performances from various rap/R&B icons, “Block Party” proves that, despite his mysterious retreat to South Africa, Chappelle is far from crazy.
Staying true to the down-to-earth nature for which he is perennially appreciated, Chappelle begins the documentary in his small, serene farm outside of Dayton, Ohio, where he gives away golden tickets (Willy-Wonka style) to the locals, inviting them to the block party.
Chappelle’s spontaneity helps him create hilarious narration as he navigates the local, small-town scene with a megaphone. This includes a visit to the Central State University marching band, which also receives a casual invite by Chappelle to the Brooklyn music festival (along with thousands of New Yorkers).
“Block Party” is unparalleled in its sheer star power including Kanye West, Talib Kweli, Common and Jill Scott, just to name a few. This is the concert he always dreamed of watching, Chappelle said in the movie.
The magic of live music is captured as the artists perform collaborations of hit after hit. Chappelle even takes time out to give praise to Dead Prez, who gives an empowered performance, making a strong statement about the current state of mainstream hip-hop music.
The documentary also includes backstage rehearsals, interviews and jam sessions with artists such as Mos Def, ?uestlove of The Roots, Cody Chestnutt and the members of the Fugees, who re-unite during the rainy concert.
The film provides a three-dimensional view of the artists never seen before, and explanations of Chappelle’s affinities for the artists and music itself.
Chappelle’s humble attitude and goofiness persist throughout the documentary as he performs acts of kindness and charity throughout Brooklyn and Dayton. The CSU marching band even joins forces with Kanye West and John Legend on a live rendition of “Jesus Walks.”
Simply put, “Block Party” is an entertaining and hilarious hour and a half of incredible hip-hop music spliced with Dave Chappelle being, well, Dave Chappelle. Who could ask for more?
–‘Dave Chappelle’s Block Party’ is currently in theaters.
