Watch I Am Richard Pryor

I Am Richard Pryor is a documentary film directed by Jesse James Miller which chronicles the life and career of the legendary comedian Richard Pryor. The film features interviews with Pryor's friends, colleagues, and family members, as well as never-before-seen footage of the performer. The documentary begins with Pryor's childhood in Peoria, Illinois, where he experienced poverty, racism, and domestic abuse. The film explores how these early experiences influenced Pryor's comedy, as he learned to use humor as a coping mechanism.

As Pryor's career blossomed in the 1960s and 70s, he broke new ground in stand-up comedy by addressing controversial topics such as race, politics, and sex. The film delves into Pryor's transformation from a clean-cut performer to a more edgy, provocative comedian who was unafraid to speak his mind.

However, the documentary also confronts the darker aspects of Pryor's life, including his struggles with drug addiction and personal relationships. The film features interviews with Pryor's ex-wives and children, who offer insight into the comedian's personal demons and the toll they took on his life.

Throughout the documentary, various commentators – including fellow comedians such as Sandra Bernhard, Mike Epps, and Bob Newhart, as well as academics like Todd Boyd – weigh in on Pryor's legacy and the importance of his work. These perspectives range from admiration for Pryor's trailblazing spirit to critiques of certain aspects of his humor.

The film also explores Pryor's impact on popular culture, from his appearances in films such as Silver Streak and Stir Crazy to his influence on younger comedians such as Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock. The documentary contextualizes Pryor's work within the larger social and cultural changes of his time, including the civil rights movement, the rise of black power, and the sexual revolution.

Overall, I Am Richard Pryor is a comprehensive exploration of one of the most influential comedians of the 20th century. The documentary balances Pryor's groundbreaking comedy with his personal struggles, offering a nuanced and multifaceted view of a complex figure. Through interviews, archival footage, and incisive commentary, the film celebrates Pryor's legacy while also engaging with the thorny questions raised by his provocative humor.

I Am Richard Pryor is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7.