Watch Don't Play Us Cheap

Don't Play Us Cheap is a 1972 musical-comedy-drama film directed by Melvin Van Peebles, who also stars in the film alongside Thomas Anderson, Jay Van Leer, and Robert Dunn. The film follows the ups and downs of a traveling theatrical troupe led by their bandleader, played by Van Peebles, as they perform in various towns across the United States.

The film is presented as a concert performed by the troupe, interspersed with musical numbers and comedic skits that tell the story of their travels. The film's narrative is presented through the lens of the troupe's experiences with racism, poverty, and cultural appropriation.

Throughout the film, the troupe faces numerous challenges as they attempt to make a living performing for audiences that often do not understand or appreciate their unique brand of art. The film's musical numbers are catchy and entertaining, but they are also a reflection of the struggles that many African American artists faced during this time period. The film tackles themes of exploitation, commercialism, and the struggle to preserve cultural identity in the face of outside pressures.

One of the standout aspects of Don't Play Us Cheap is its distinct visual style. The film features brightly colored sets and costumes that are reminiscent of the blaxploitation films that were popular at the time. The characters are larger than life, and the musical numbers are filled with bold choreography and energetic performances.

Despite its humorous tone and upbeat musical numbers, the film also has moments of depth and poignancy. One particularly moving scene involves a young boy who is entranced by the troupe's music and dance. He asks if he can join the troupe, but is told that he cannot because of the color of his skin. This moment highlights the harsh realities of segregation and discrimination that many African Americans faced during this time period.

Overall, Don't Play Us Cheap is an entertaining and thought-provoking film that offers a unique look at the experiences of African American artists in the 1970s. Its blend of humor, music, and social commentary make it a must-see for fans of musicals and vintage cinema.

Don't Play Us Cheap is a 1973 romance movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6.