5 Reasons You Should See Top Five This Weekend @TopFiveMovie #TopFiveMovie

Glamazons,

Honestly, I had no idea what to expect when I went to a screening of “Top Five” this Tuesday. The only thing I could gather from the commercials was that there would be fun cameos (yay Tracy Morgan!) and lots of talk about everyone’s “Top Five” favorite rappers. And obviously, that’s enough for me to be excited about the film. But the star sightings and “Top Five” lists were truly just the beginning. Not only was the film laugh-out-loud funny, but it was thought-provoking, intelligent and even romantic. It follows Andre Allen (Chris Rock), a comedian who found success with a commercial film and is now vying to be taken seriously as an artist.

Without any major spoilers, here are 5 reasons you should see it this weekend!

1. The Social Commentary

I’ve always loved Chris Rock‘s take on social issues. Quite brilliantly, he helped spearhead the natural hair movement with his eye-opening documentary “Good Hair.” His recent interview with Vulture went viral for his take on the concept of progress in the African-American community. Chris Rock‘s views on celebrity, Hollywood, the presidency, class, race and even sexual orientation are all interwoven in the plot. And the premise gives a lot of insight into what life is like as a famous comedian: dealing with the perils of fame, fighting not to lose your creativity and passion for comedy, facing negative criticism about your work and personal life, etc.

2. The Cameos

It’s amazing to see Tracy Morgan back on the silver screen, but Morgan is only one of the major celebrities that make a cameo. Look out for memorable appearances by iconic comedians, A-List celebs, rappers and more.

3. Love Story

With all the comedy and social commentary, you’d be surprised to know the film has its share of romance. “Top Five” as a love story is hilarious, touching, painful and complicated. The fairytale ending is just perfect.

4. It’s Produced by Kanye West and Jay Z

I was surprised to see Kanye and Jay Z‘s producing credits at the end of the film (though ‘Ye‘s appearances at the red carpet premieres now make sense). Though producers can be hands-off, I like to think the “Top Five” rap debates and the commentary on reality TV might somehow be linked to Kanye and Jay‘s roles behind-the-scenes.

5. The Top Five Debates

“Top Five” conversations are a staple in the hip hop community. I’ve participated in more than I could ever count! Everyone reads way too much into people’s answers; we judge someone’s “Top Five” lists to see whether we can vibe with them on music (and everything else). For example, if my favorite rapper Nas makes your list, I like you even more. Yes, I’m serious. I loved to see that tradition play out on the silver screen. Chelsea Brown (Rosario Dawson)’s delivery of her top five list is pretty epic.

*Bonus: I didn’t include the fact that it’s hilarious because…duh! But “Top Five” may be one of the funniest movies of the year. There were moments when I laughed so hard my stomach hurt. And for one scene, the entire audience erupted in applause. It felt like we were at a concert!

*Bonus: I loved to see the different NYC landmarks in the background including my alma mater Columbia University (woot!) and one of my fave hangout spots, The Coffee Shop in Union Square!  

Are you going to see Top Five this weekend?! Did you see it already? What did you think? Would love to hear from you in the comments!

Kisses,

Glamazon Jessica