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.

Directed by Robert Townsend

Top cast

Franklyn Ajaye

Self

Angela Bassett

Narrator (voice)

Bill Bellamy

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Todd Boyd

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Jeff Clanagan

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Bill Cosby

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Stanley Crouch

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Elijah Cummings

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Tommy Davidson

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Michael Eric Dyson

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Walter Fauntroy

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Shang Forbes

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Marla Gibbs

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Louis Gossett Jr.

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Dick Gregory

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Eddie Griffin

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Steve Harvey

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D.L. Hughley

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Sheila Jackson Lee

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Eddie Levert

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Details