Head of State
Starring: Chris Rock, Bernie Mac, Dylan Baker, Nick Searcy, Robin Givens, Tamala Jones
Studio: DreamWorks
Head of State is a very surprising comedy! While the stand-up comedy of Chris Rock is always hilarious, his movies usually aren't. I decided to pick up this movie, just out of sheer curiosity, and I'm glad I did. It was a solid flick from start to finish, and it was really put together well.
Rock plays Mays Gilliam, a local (unknown) politician in Washington. (I think they say he's an alderman, but I'm not even sure what that is!) In any case, one of the political parties is suddenly without a front runner, and they need someone to step in run for President. Gilliam is chosen as a puppet to lose, and he quickly figures this out. He decides to ditch the prepared material and start speaking to from the heart. He's unlike any politician the public has even seen before, and they begin to respond to him.
As Gilliam's numbers climb, the other party decides that it's time to play dirty. The media takes turns left and right (as with all political runs) and it certainly is a hilarious ride. Mays decides to have fun while running for President, and he calls upon his brother (Mac) to be his running mate. The two of them tour the country in a bus, campaigning like no politicians ever have before.
It's a fun ride, and I won't spoil anything by telling you how it ends. All I will say is this: Forget everything you know about Chris Rock's previous movies. This one is a fun political movie (along the lines of Bulworth) and it has laughs until the end. Perhaps the most interesting thing about it, is that Gilliam is a really likeable character, and I'd love to see a real politician act human for once. It certainly would be a refreshing change of pace! Check it out today!
Overall: 8/10
Additional Information:
Rating: PG-13
Run time: 95 minutes.
Released: 2003
DVD Special Features:
Chris Rock's Outrageous Commentary
The Making of Head of State
Deleted Scenes
Picture Gallery
Many more extras!
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