Dave Chappelle's Block Party

Aroview: Dynamite concert film follows comedian Chappelle, in cahoots with an all-star roll-call of R&B and hip-hop acts, during the leadup and performance of a free inner-city "block party" in Brooklyn, NY.

An instantly endearing host, Chappelle brings much candor and humour to proceedings, with an infectious spirit that clearly rubs off on his fellow entertainers and audience alike. Dir. Gondry's presence is notably subdued here, but his considered approach lends a tone of concern to the film which, despite bridging race and class through its open-heartedness, urges further reflection on America as a divided nation. As a musical spectacle, it is unrivaled, with boisterous live performances from Kanye West, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Common, The Fugees (reunited for the first time in seven years), Dead Prez, Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, and acting as house band, The Roots.

NZ International Film Festival 2006

more matches…