Richard Pryor (Limited Edition) (DVD)

Author's product rating:   

Did you enjoy it?	Loved it
Story	Outstanding
Characters / Performances	Outstanding
Special Effects	Unmemorable
How does it compare to similar films?	Outstanding

Advantages:	Pryor on top of his game
Disadvantages:	over use of certain choice words

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

I'm almost positive than anyone who is into comedy in a big way will rate Richard Pryor amongst the greatest there ever was. I am one of those, hence the first review of this limited edition DVD, coincidentally the first Pryor DVD I ever bought. So what is it that is so good and funny about a man whose life story has more tragedy than truimph? Well thats exactly it...its the way these stories of bad times that are recalled in such a way that gives you images of his life that ultimately make you smile.

Whether its the getting 'whoop-assed' by his mama as a child, or indeed the 'shooting of his wifes car' as well as the benefit boxing bout with Mohammed Ali. The Live In Concert part of the DVD has never been bettered in my opinion. Pryor is a fantastic storyteller who has the ability to make you laugh out loud, not only on first viewing but even after the 100th time, making him such a special comedian.

The live in concert was definately a peak in Pryor's comedy powers, a performance that secured his place in comedy history. Pryor is at ease with his stand up skills and the random exchanges with the audience. It portrays a large amount of his life to that point ; heart attacks, run ins with the police, animals, boxing, upbringing, marriage, sex, death, films etc and all packed in to one special performance.

Obviously when reviewing something it is easy to put across what you like about it. A word of caution should be put to anyone wanting to purchase; be prepared for strong language and high usage of the 'N word', which in these times is not used as freely or as inoffensive as Pryors use in this concert. I certainly dont find it offensive but there is a high amount of general swearing in the performance.

I am reluctant to give any examples of actual gags in fear of spoiling the DVD for any newcommers only to comment that Pryor describes his fathers death whilst having sex as "he came and went at the same time!" That is probably the best example of the type of humour Pryor uses within the gig.

This actual DVD features the added bonus of 'Stir Crazy' a film that added to Pryor's reputation as an actor, something that surely contributed to being paid more than Christopher Reeve as Superman in Superman III. The chemistry between Pryor and Gene Wilder is terrific to watch despite pryors use of cocaine was into orbit during the making of this amusing comedy flick.

With a plot consisting of two men framed for murder and looking at over 100 years in prison for the crime it becomes a tale of how two extraverts attempt to break out. Pryor's performance is decent and the film is certainly worth watching, especially as a compliment to the live in concert though it is a massive contrast to the stand up material.

Overall, the main feature is without doubt the fantastic in concert part of the DVD though Stir Crazy is an excellent accompaniment. There is a number of DVDs that have Richard Pryor comedy as a main feature but this is the definitive performance and definately the starting point for anyone looking to get into his material. Highly recommended!

Other pryor films to seek should anyone have and like stir crazy are: -
Silver Streak and see no evil hear no evil (ironically both feature Gene Wilder too)