Review of Top Five (2014) by Maksim B — 28 Apr 2015

Smart, funny and unique in its own way Top Five is a surprisingly delightful contemporary comedy which not only squeezes the best of Chris Rock's talent, but also impresses with a certain level of personal touch. An intriguing blend of business satire, social commentary and dramatic elements, this movie is packed with good laughs, evokes good feelings and delivers levels of entertainment you have not expected from it.

Andre Allen (Chris Rock) is a New York stand-up comedian-turned-movie star, who seems to be destined for huge success. Despite all the fame, money and attention something never stops eating him from the inside and when he meets a provocative, yet intriguing journalist (Rosario Dawson) he embarks on a journey to re-discover himself. Surprisingly for many (including me), this directorial effort of Chris Rock is a free-flowing, honest story of a person who has lost himself in the hectic world of business opportunities, media attention and fame. Down-to-earth, Rock in the leading role interacts smoothly with Dawson and without being the noisy-Chris Rock whom many dislike, he succeeds to entertain, to make you laugh and deliver some stunningly good impersonations.

It is true that in terms of directing, there is nothing spectacular or memorable in Chris Rock being behind the camera, but the good story and his presence in front of the camera compensate for this. In addition to this, Rosario Dawson's presence adds up the much appreciated alternative and down-to-earth feeling that makes the story flow smoothly. Without being a romance, Top Five manages to please the audience with a mild touch of romantic thrills.

In conclusion, Top Five is definitely one of the better and smartest comedies released recently. Smarter, intimate and with quality of humor way above the level of the profane R-rated, young adolescent-oriented comedies , Top Fine is an outstanding example for a mature comedy.