TOP FIVE [2014]

Comedian Chris Rock pushes himself forward by writing, directing and starring in his own film (with the help of music heavyweights Jay-Z and Kanye West producing).
The romantic/comedy with a sneer Top Five proves itself to be quite witty, entertaining and subtly funny.
It follows the story of a slapstick comedic actor, on his way out of the popularity door, that's attempting to be taken seriously with a less than stellar historic drama.  A character study of stardom, being true to oneself, and racial issues are all supported by extended scenes of cleverly observational dialogue that aren't always laugh out loud funny but constantly gets the brain working.  Rock displays a side of vulnerability and sensitivity that I never really knew he had in him and that makes for a breezy but very likeable film.

3 bear-cops out of 5