Why We Laugh: Black Comedians on Black Comedy

Overview

Directors Robert Townsend and Quincy Newell offer this comprehensive and hilarious examination of the history, evolution and cultural significance of African American comedy in America, from the earliest minstrel shows to the latest HBO special. Featuring interviews with cultural critics and loads of comedic clips, this program features appearances by a who's-who of black comedians including Chris Rock, Bill Cosby, Whoopi Goldberg and many more.

Cast

Franklyn Ajaye

Self

Angela Bassett

Narrator (voice)

Bill Bellamy

Self

Todd Boyd

Self

Jeff Clanagan

Self

Bill Cosby

Self

Stanley Crouch

Self

Elijah Cummings

Self

Tommy Davidson

Self

Michael Eric Dyson

Self