Watch W. Kamau Bell: Private School Negro

W. Kamau Bell: Private School Negro is a 2018 stand-up comedy documentary film where American comedian and political satirist W. Kamau Bell dives into the complex world of race and identity politics in the United States. Directed by Shannon Hartman, the film features a live recording of one of Bell's stand-up comedy performances interspersed with interviews and insights from experts and thought leaders in the field of race relations.

As the title suggests, the movie revolves around Bell's personal experiences growing up as a "private school negro," and how this shaped his understanding of himself, his community, and American society as a whole. Through humor, wit, and sharp social commentary, Bell provides a comedic take on the often-bitter realities of race, class, and culture in the 21st century.

The film is divided into several segments, each exploring a different aspect of Bell's life and the wider socio-political landscape of the United States. In the opening segment, Bell talks about his upbringing as a black kid attending predominantly white private schools in the San Francisco Bay Area. With a mix of self-deprecation and astute observation, Bell describes the awkwardness of trying to assimilate into a culture that didn't fully accept him, while at the same time distancing himself from the black community.

From there, Bell goes on to tackle a wide range of topics, from the Black Lives Matter movement to Donald Trump's presidency to the history of African Americans in the United States. Using his trademark blend of humor and insight, Bell invites the audience to think critically about issues that are often swept under the rug or reduced to simplistic sound bites in mainstream media.

One of the standout moments of the film comes when Bell interviews social justice activist and writer Patrisse Cullors, one of the co-founders of Black Lives Matter. In a candid and emotionally powerful conversation, Cullors talks about her own experiences with police brutality and racial profiling, and how these experiences fueled her activism. Bell, himself a vocal advocate for racial justice, listens attentively and asks thoughtful questions, bringing a sense of empathy and connection to the conversation.

Throughout the film, Bell makes a point of using humor to break down barriers and bring people together across race, class, and cultural divides. Whether he's riffing on the absurdity of Confederate statues or skewering the hypocrisy of liberal white guilt, Bell demonstrates a keen ability to find the wit and irony in even the darkest aspects of American society.

Overall, W. Kamau Bell: Private School Negro is a powerful and thought-provoking commentary on race and identity politics in contemporary America. By weaving together personal anecdotes, interviews, and stand-up comedy, Bell offers a nuanced and multifaceted perspective on issues that are often reduced to simplistic sound bites or sensational headlines. For anyone interested in exploring the complex and ever-evolving landscape of modern race relations, this film is a must-see.