Chris Rock isn’t quite himself in Top Five. He may be playing a stand-up turned film star, but his character is actually Andre Allen, a man struggling to be taken seriously considering his past in lightweight franchise roles.

Such a premise is familiar for many comics and although it tempts accusations of narcissism, with a tone as sincere and honest as this, it comes across as self-reflexive rather than egotistical.

Most importantly, Top Five is hilarious, driven by plenty of delightful walk-and-talk scenes between Rock and Dawson, reminiscent of Woody Allen or Quentin Tarantino.

Featuring the funniest sex scene since Team America, and a film-stealing cameo from an unexpected rapper, Top Five is such an enjoyable watch that it’s easy to ignore how slick and clever it often is.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Chris Rock, Rosario Dawson, Gabrielle Union, Tracy Morgan, Leslie Jones, Cedric the Entertainer

DIRECTOR: Chris Rock

WRITER: Chris Rock

SYNOPSIS: A comedian tries to make it as a serious actor while his reality TV-star fiancée talks him into broadcasting their wedding on her TV show.