With 1999’s ‘Bigger & Blacker,’ Chris Rock risked his career

As a seasoned movie critic with a deep appreciation for the evolution of stand-up comedy, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Chris Rock‘s third HBO special, “Bigger & Blacker,” through the lens of both personal growth and historical context. Having grown up during the 1990s, I can attest to the profound impact this groundbreaking special had on us as a society, and how its relevance continues to resonate in today’s world.

School shootings, presidential sex scandals, taxes, racism and the big piece of chicken.

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I’ve come across many films that have stood the test of time. One such film is Chris Rock’s third HBO special, “Bigger & Blacker,” which first graced our screens on July 10, 1999. Regardless of how much the world has transformed since then, watching it will leave you in no doubt that our nation’s worries remain startlingly similar.

During a time when comedy specials were rare and only given to the most renowned individuals, Rock’s next production following “Bring the Pain” was an intricate act that highlighted the fact that this versatile artist, who was at the pinnacle of his fame, prioritized something above all else: connecting with Black America through relatable jokes, and crafting witty lines that resonated with anyone possessing a heart and a sense of humor.

After wrapping up a significant film production (“Lethal Weapon IV”) and hosting popular TV programs like “Saturday Night Live” and “The Chris Rock Show,” Rock had the chance to tone down his act to appeal to a wider audience. However, he chose to amplify the intensity instead by embracing controversy head-on, as comics often do.

Despite his small build, which proved to be deceptive, Rock’s persona during the 1990s was marked by biting sarcasm, unyielding aggression, and unflinching honesty. Reflecting this intensity, he delivered his jokes with purposeful pacing as he began his act with jabs at Columbine and the “trench coat gang.”

“It’s disturbing and incomprehensible why some teenagers, who are supposed to be in school, are resorting to violence and shooting up the place. It’s even more alarming when these incidents occur before the usual dismissal time. Taking lives in the morning hours is not acceptable behavior.”

During tough times, skilled comedians like Rock can transform sadness into amusing and straightforward perspectives. For instance, the sight of a band of unruly, murderous teenagers having more companionship than Rock experienced during his school days made mass killings seem comically ludicrous to their enthralled audience.

Chris Rock during a party for the “Saturday Night Live” cast and crew in the early 1990s.

(Ron Galella / Ron Galella Collection via Getty)

I can’t help but be transported back to that electric night as I recall the infectious enthusiasm of the audience throughout the special. Have you ever experienced crowd laughter so contagious and hilarious that it seemed to surpass even the funniest jokes? The scene was filled with people losing their balance, leaning into their neighbors for support, standing up with jubilant “Whoop! Whoop!” cheers, and rolling in the aisles as if possessed by an unstoppable spirit.

Up until now, Rock’s humorous takes on the distinctions between men and women, including references to figures like former President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton, as well as individuals in our personal lives, have made “Bigger & Blacker” a beloved and memorable special. Many fans of Rock can still recite it word for word after a quarter century.

Some of the best lines (that we can repeat):

“Instead of focusing on gun control, let’s consider bullet control. I propose that every bullet should have a price tag of $5,000. With such a high cost, there would likely be fewer bullets fired in unnecessary situations, thereby reducing the number of innocent bystanders harmed.”

“The focus is entirely on Mama, Mama, Mama. Sadly, the efforts of Daddy are often overlooked. Consider all the responsibilities a genuine father bears, and in return, what reward does he receive? Just a mere portion of the chicken.”

“Clinton came close to being impeached for something as simple as lying about his extramarital affair, which is not a criminal offense severe enough for the Supreme Court. This situation would have been more fitting for a reality court show like ‘The People’s Court’ or ‘Judge Judy.'”

“We accumulate taxes throughout our lives, but you can only start receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65. Unfortunately, the average life expectancy for African American men is just 54 years old. It’s unfair that we have to wait until much later to receive this crucial financial support. Many factors, including hypertension and high blood pressure, as well as encounters with law enforcement, can significantly impact our lives before then.”

As a devoted cinema enthusiast, I can recall that during my childhood, our medicine cabinet held only one remedy for all ailments – Robitussin. No matter what affliction struck us, Robitussin was the go-to solution. If I had asthma attacks, “Daddy, I’m having trouble breathing,” would be met with, “Robitussin it is!” Should we face a cancer diagnosis, my father would reply, “Robitussin will help us through this.” And if an unfortunate injury led to a broken leg, he would administer the trusted elixir. Robitussin was our trusted companion and faithful healer during those formative years.

As a devoted cinema-goer, I’ve come to realize that finding a cure for AIDS may not be an achievable goal at this moment. The financial gains are not in the discovery of a cure, but rather in the production and distribution of medication. Just like a drug dealer relies on repeat customers for his profits, the government seems more interested in managing the symptoms than eradicating the disease entirely. It’s a harsh truth, but it’s important to acknowledge the complexities behind this ongoing health crisis.

Today, many successful comedy stars wouldn’t come close to delivering the edgy jokes that Rock performed on stage. Fearful of backlash from various groups or losing opportunities in Hollywood, even the most daring comedians can eventually tone down their act for a safer, more consistent income. It’s possible that “Bigger & Blacker” prevented Rock from achieving even greater financial success later on. However, his raw and unfiltered performances showed that the cost of greatness is worth more than any amount of gold.

Reflecting on his old jokes, it’s astonishing how relevant they still are as we approach another pivotal presidential election and face ongoing challenges such as new viruses, racial unrest, and escalating living expenses. In the absence of comedic shows like “Bigger & Blacker” to help us cope, society might come to the disheartening realization that we’re in a dire situation. Stand-up comedy, with Rock being its leading figure, has always been essential in providing relief during tumultuous times and continues to do so decades later.

2024-07-18 19:27

With 1999’s ‘Bigger & Blacker,’ Chris Rock risked his career — and secured his legacy

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