Chris Rock, long time stand-up comedian, makes his directorial debut in `Head Of State.' This film was surprisingly impressive. Although it is predictable and not completely original, it is inspired. Rock brings along a comical sense that is all his own and makes `Head Of State' a winner. Besides the humor of Rock, Bernie Mac also stars as Rock's brother. Mac (`Ocean's Eleven') is hilarious in the role and with the likes of these two comedians, it ultimately leads `Head Of State' to be a better comedy than the other two major comedy releases of late: `Bringing Down The House,' and `Anger Management.' Rock stars as Mays Gilliam, an alderman in Washington D.C. area, who is chosen to run for President after the official candidate is killed in an accident. Gilliam brings along his own sense of reality in his campaign addressing issues such as violence, Medicare, and taxes by pawning the quote, `this s*** ain't right!' But when scandals arise, Gilliam has to find a way to let the truth be known about his past and ultimately get him elected to the highest position in the country. This is the most fun film that has been released in a long while. Although some of the jokes lack originality, one can't help but laugh out loud at its outlandish humor. One scene in particular was hysterical in which Gilliam attends a social party to raise money for his campaign. Gilliam breaks out the song `Hot In Herre' and gets even the most prim and proper of Washington's elite to dance to it. The scenes with Mac would make just about anyone snicker. My favorite parts of the film occurred when Mac goes on political talk shows to promote his brother's campaign. He's asked about what he thinks of N.A.F.T.A. and his response is, `Yeah, Nafta's a good guy.' He has no idea of what the organization is and leaves the host dumbfounded. Not to mention the funny way in which Rock and Mac greet each other-a good slug in the gut.
Dylan Baker (`Fried Green Tomatoes,' `Cast Away') plays the other Presidential candidate, Martin Geller, who is also the current Vice President. Baker is quite comical as an arrogant candidate whose favorite line to feed to the mob is `God Bless America, and no else.'
Rock did have some obvious technical difficulties in the filming of `Head Of State.' For example, in at least two scenes, the boom, or microphone could be seen at the top of the screen. I would normally cringe at such an editing mishap. However, this was film light-hearted and droll enough that I'm willing to let it go. Overall, `Head Of State' is a likable comedy that gets my vote. ***
Dylan Baker (`Fried Green Tomatoes,' `Cast Away') plays the other Presidential candidate, Martin Geller, who is also the current Vice President. Baker is quite comical as an arrogant candidate whose favorite line to feed to the mob is `God Bless America, and no else.'
Rock did have some obvious technical difficulties in the filming of `Head Of State.' For example, in at least two scenes, the boom, or microphone could be seen at the top of the screen. I would normally cringe at such an editing mishap. However, this was film light-hearted and droll enough that I'm willing to let it go. Overall, `Head Of State' is a likable comedy that gets my vote. ***