Good Hair

Good Hair is a compelling 2009 documentary that explores the complex relationship between African American women and their hair. Cleverly and engrossingly directed by Jeff Stilson, the film is spearheaded by comedy legend Chris Rock, who transforms from comic to an investigative journalist. The film also features noted appearances from cultural figureheads like former U.S. poet laureate Maya Angelou and civil rights activist Al Sharpton.

The film opens with a wonderfully anecdotal incident when Rock's young daughter asks him, "Daddy, why don't I have good hair?" It's this innocent query that propels Rock on an investigative journey into the fascination, culture, history, politics, and complications of African American hair.

The movie is structured in a manner that allows the audience to visit a variety of contexts and hear different perspectives about this multifaceted issue. The film spans from beauty salons and barber shops to an annual hair convention in Atlanta where an intense, competitive hairstyling battle takes place.

Interestingly, the documentary reiterates how 'Good Hair' is often classified in the African American community as having hair close to the texture and straightness of Caucasians, which leads to a range of both physical and psychological issues. Far more than just a hair styling preference, the documentary delves deep into the societal and historical pressures that have led to an African American hair industry worth millions of dollars. It highlights the desire of many black women to have their hair straightened, often through potentially harmful chemical processes or expensive weave treatments.

To really delve into the roots of this multi-layered issue, Rock and his team travel to India where an overwhelming amount of human hair used for weaves comes from. We are shown the journey of hair, right from various Indian temples, where women sacrificially shear their hair, through to the factories where it is untangled, processed, and packaged. The climax is the moment the very same extensions finally find their way into a salon in the U.S., signifying a truly global journey.

Good Hair is more than just an exploration of African American beauty concepts and standards; it delves into cultural identity, self-image, and is a social commentary that echoes far beyond the hair discussion. It portrays how societal pressure have led many to conform to an established idea of beauty which is not necessarily healthiest nor economically beneficial for them.

Throughout the documentary, Chris Rock, known for his electrifying humor and insightful commentary, navigates these heavy issues with his innate comedic grace. Despite the gravity of the topics he investigates, Rock's natural humor punctuates the narrative and makes the content accessible and palpable to a wider audience.

Mixed with the measured humor are interviews from a variety of sources. Maya Angelou and Reverend Al Sharpton, for instance, offer thought-provoking insights into the history and cultural significance of African American hair going as far back as slavery times, while hair stylists, scientists, and everyday women share intimate stories and experiences about their own hair journeys.

Besides the comedic elements and serious interviews, Good Hair is enriched with a fascinating reality-show-esque hair-styling contest. The Bronner Bros. Hair Show, held in Atlanta, is a high-stakes competition among hairstylists that offers both entertainment and a meaningful look into the industry's creativity and the lengths many go to create good hair.

In conclusion, 'Good Hair' is an engaging, thought-provoking exploration into the roles of beauty, identity, and the African American hair culture that is often overlooked and oversimplified. With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and insight, this critically acclaimed documentary will certainly make you see 'good hair' in a new light.