Universal Movie   ••• Picture/Sound   ••• Extras   •••

Dave Chappelle is a funny man, and his Block Party has some good laughs. But this movie is mostly about a free, all-day concert he organized in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, featuring some big names in hip-hop. Erykah Badu, Kanye West, and Mos Def all turn in spirited performances, as do the reunited Fugees. Director Michel Gondry keeps things moving at a lively pace, and you get to choose between expurgated or extended versions of the music performances — a nice touch.

The disc looks fine, with crisp colors, no smearing or digital artifacts, and plenty of image detail that doesn't wash out under the stage lights. The 5.1-channel soundtrack has lots of pulsating low bass and a nice sense of air around the performers and their instruments. Other than the extended songs, extras are limited to a fun making-of featurette (with Chappelle in fine form) and an affectionate homage to his Ohio hometown. [NR] English, Dolby Digital 5.1; letterboxed (1.78:1) and anamorphic widescreen; dual layer.

more of this month's reviews
Back to Homepage
What's New on S&V