Sunday, March 6, 2011

Dave Chappelle: For What It's Worth


Dave Chappelle's exit from his own television show back in 2005 was one of the biggest surprises the comedy world has experienced in the past decade. His troubles with "Chappelle's Show" has been well-documented, but right before he took off for South Africa, Chappelle stopped in San Francisco's famous Fillmore Auditorium to record an hour long stand-up special.

Dave Chappelle: For What It's Worth
Director: Stan Lathan
Starring: Dave Chappelle


If you're not familiar with Chappelle's style of comedy, he blends topical content with humorous racial stereotypes in a way that occasionally incites controversy but is always hysterically funny. He's one of the most talented comedians alive, and For What It's Worth is a great example of how creative the man can be when he's at his most comfortable: on stage in front of a crowd. Since this was recorded in 2004, there are a lot of references that won't hold up very well as they fade from memory (Kobe Bryant's alleged rape case, R. Kelly's urinating fiasco, and Michael Jackson's supposed molestation are all mentioned).


Highlights of this particular show include a story about being hijacked on a bus by a masturbating homeless man, a fictional run-in with George Washington, and discussing the differences between the eating habits of many American cultures. It's almost impossible to properly review something like this; you either think Chappelle's funny or you don't, and he's literally standing on a stage the entire time, so there's nothing interesting going on with camerawork or cutaway interviews. Just know that if you're a fan, there's a lot to like here, and work like this makes me miss Chappelle's presence in the entertainment industry today. Until next time...

(Well, look at that! The entire show is available to watch for free right now on .)

1 comment:

Lakers PR Rep said...

"Since this was recorded in 2004, there are a lot of references that won't hold up very well as they fade from memory (Kobe Bryant's alleged rape case, R. Kelly's urinating fiasco, and Michael Jackson's supposed molestation are all mentioned)."

Rape, molestation and harassing urination should be acceptable if the public just forgets about it...