Plot:
Filmmakers Robert Townsend and Quincy Newell examine the history of African - American comedy from the black face minstrel shows of a bygone age to the politically and socially charged humor of Richard Pryor and Dick Gregory, to the corporate - influenced Def Jams and Comedy Kings that dominate today. Featuring a lineup of scholars, politicians, critics and comedy legends including Bill Cosby, Chris Rock, Keenan Ivory Wayans and Eddie Griffin, this documentary is inspired by author Darryl Littletons book Black Comedians on Black Comedy.