Kings of comedy? Maybe not. But these guys are certainly funny enough to merit the title of clown princes.
The Original Kings of Comedy (2000)
Tomatometer
How does the Tomatometer work ![]()
Reviews Counted:86
Fresh:74
Rotten:12
Average Rating:6.9/10
Consensus: If you want lots of laughs and don't mind some profanity, The Original Kings of Comedy can deliver.
Theatrical Release:Aug 18, 2000 Wide
Box Office: $11,053,832
Synopsis: When four of the world's funniest black stand-up comics came together to celebrate their crownings as the "Kings of Comedy," acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee decided to film two of their most... When four of the world's funniest black stand-up comics came together to celebrate their crownings as the "Kings of Comedy," acclaimed filmmaker Spike Lee decided to film two of their most memorable shows. The result is THE ORIGINAL KINGS OF COMEDY, a raucous concert film that takes its cue from classic performers such as Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy. The host of the evening, Steve Harvey, spends most of his time criticizing modern music--namely hip-hop--for forgetting to include love in its songs, missing the days when black music was passionate and romantic. D.L. Hughley focuses on universal topics such as work, as well as taking his time to criticize certain unfortunate audience members. Cedric "The Entertainer" makes a series of clever points about the differences between white and black people in addition to using his large frame to dance and run around the stage to hilarious effect. Capping off the film is Bernie Mac, a frustrated 42-year-old who is sick of sex and believes that people should tell it like it is, no matter whom they might offend. As funny as each individual is, they also take the time to make poignant observations about race, relationships, and popular culture, giving the film a sincerity that is truly refreshing. [More]
Starring: Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, Bernie Mac, Steve Harvey
Starring: Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, Bernie Mac, Steve Harvey
Director: Spike Lee
Director: Spike Lee
Producer: Walter Latham, David Gale, Spike Lee
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Get This Movie
Reviews for The Original Kings of Comedy
While the comics' edge on race matters is finely honed, it's thought-provoking and honest, not exploitative or hateful. And almost always very, very funny.
The key to such a movie's success is its ability to capture the 'you are there' feeling -- a task that The Original Kings of Comedy is largely effective at.
It may be the clearest and most accurate cinematic expression of what it means to be black and American in the first year of the new millennium.
Time and again, we're transported by the outpouring of liberating humor from four men who know the territory.
Judging by audience reaction -- out of their seats, in the aisles, standing up, swaying to the music, howling in recognition of material that hit home -- these kings rule.
Definitely funnier than your average episode of Def Comedy Jam or Evening At The Improv.
While that vulgarity eventually gets wearing, parts of their acts are so funny your cheeks hurt.
Ranks right up there with Pryor's Live on Sunset Strip, Eddie Murphy's Raw and Martin Lawrence's You So Crazy.
The most articulate and entertaining commentary on racial differences to have come down the pike in quite a while.
While not making for the most visually inventive of cinema, the straightforward approach puts in proper focus the film's appeal: four talented guys simply being very funny.
There's nothing stodgy about these court jesters or their humor, even though their act is a decidedly grown-up affair.
Latest News for The Original Kings of Comedy
August 12, 2008:
Bernie Mac's 15 Roles to Remember ![]()
Planning a Bernie Mac movie marathon this weekend? Entertainment Weekly has helpfully compiled a list of the comedian and actor's 15 most memorable roles. More...
March 23, 2006:
Critical Consensus: "Inside Man" is Certified Fresh, Second Best-Reviewed Wide Release Of
Tension: it's the key to many a film, and this week's wide releases bring three variants on that theme. We've got a hostage situation ("Inside Man"), class conflict... More...
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 66% 66% | Public Enemies |
| 83% 83% | Harry Potter and the H… |
| 44% 44% | Night at the Museum: B… |
| 75% 75% | Julie & Julia |
| 32% 32% | Terminator Salvation |
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 90% 90% | District 9 |
| 86% 86% | 500 Days of Summer |
| 63% 63% | Extract |
| 06% 06% | All About Steve |
| 78% 78% | It Might Get Loud |
RT On Current TV
DIRECTV 358 | Comcast 107 | DISH Network 196 | More...
What’s Hot On RT
Other News
CloseSponsored Links
Around The Network
- The Original Kings of Comedy at Rotten Tomatoes
- The Original Kings of Comedy at IGN
- The Original Kings of Comedy at AskMen
Fresh Links
Featured

Take a look at MSN's choices for the Top 10 films of 2009.

What were your favorites? Least favorites? The funniest and scariest? Moviefone wants to know!

Hollywood.com explores why QT's characters resonate so well with audiences.

TIME chimes in with their own list of the best films released this year.

Click through to see which movies BuzzSugar placed in their Best-of-Decade list!
Promos

Get the latest Tomatometer updates on upcoming movies!



Top Critic


