Dave Chappelle‘s abrupt departure from his hit Comedy Central program "Chappelle’s Show" caused lots of concern from his very loyal fans, who feared they might have heard the last from him. They needn’t have worried. At 94 percent on the Tomatometer, "Dave Chappelle’s Block Party" is not only Certified Fresh, it’s also the best-reviewed film of the year.
"Block Party" achieves another distinction, something that only one wide release managed to do in 2005: crack 90 percent on the Tomatometer (for all you trivia nerds, that film was "Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit," which notched a 95 percent). It’s not outside the realm of possibility that "Block Party" could be a contender for the 2006 Golden Tomato Award.
Directed by Michel Gondry (whose "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" scored a 93 percent), the film documents a free concert in Brooklyn, starring Dave and some of his best friends (Kanye West, Erykah Badu, the Roots, Mos Def, and the reunited Fugees — ooh la la la!). Critics say the film is an exuberant testament to Chappelle’s winning, intelligent brand of humor, as well as his excellent taste in music. The scribes note that while Chappelle hasn’t lost his razor-sharp edge, his warmth and enthusiasm make this a party to remember.
Top 10 Best-Reviewed Films of 2006 So Far
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(For films with at least 50 reviews)
94% – Dave Chappelle’s Block Party (wide)
90% – Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story (limited)
90% – Neil Young: Heart of Gold (limited)
81% – Why We Fight (limited)
75% – Nanny McPhee (wide)
72% – Eight Below (wide)
69% – Curious George (wide)
66% – Bubble (limited)
63% – Something New (wide)
59% – Hostel (wide)
