Friday, March 3, 2006

R

For language.

Comedy, Documentary, Musical

Dave Chappelle, Talib Kweli, Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott, Bilal Ahmir, Big Daddy Kane, Cody Chestnutt, Common, Kool G. Rap, Wyclef Jean, Freeway, Pras, Fred Hampton Jr., James Gray, Leonard Hubbard, Tariq Trotter, Tiffany Limos, Dead Prez, Kanye West, Da

Dave Chappelle

Michel Gondry

Dave Chapelle's Block Party (2005)

Academy Award-winning filmmaker Michel Gondry and his "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" cinematographer Ellen Kuras capture all of the exclusive performances and crowd excitement on an unforgettable Saturday afternoon and night, as well as (earlier in the week) private rehearsals footage and Mr. Chappelle in the small Ohio town he calls home.

In Ohio, Mr. Chappelle wandered through town handing out golden tickets to invite several dozen citizens to join the party, providing transportation and lodging for their first-time-ever visit to Brooklyn. Ohio's Central State University marching band made the trip and helped kick off the festivities at the intersection of Quincy and Downing Streets. As a diverse crowd comes together, Mr. Chappelle's freestyle wit guides them (and us) through a day-long, life-affirming celebration of music and comedy, history and community.

The lineup of performers is distinguished not only by the caliber of their music but also by the strength and power that their art draws from keeping their creativity pure. Offering moviegoers front-row seats at a unique entertainment and communal experience, "Dave Chappelle's Block Party" showcases how vital and vibrant music and humor can unite us and help transcend our turbulent times.