Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin'

Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is an iconic representation of Richard Pryor's raw and untamed comedic genius. Released in 1971, it captured the essence of what made Pryor an enduring figure in stand-up comedy blends, offering a mix of audacious humor, satirical storytelling, and unashamed self-examination.

The movie is the first stand-up act by Pryor to be made into a feature film, showcasing the actor at New York’s Improvisation Club during the days he was pioneering a new breed of comedy, one that would go on to influence generations of stand-up comedians. The movie is Pryor live, and uncut, delivering his unique style of humor that blends mundane daily life and absurd situations.

Live and Smokin' is an embodiment of Pryor’s marvel as he uses the improvisational nature of the venue to his advantage. The comic's wit is the engine that drives the show, as he weaves and ducks, takes the audience with him on journeys into unexpected places, and leaves them surprised and entertained. The film provides invaluable insight into Pryor’s early creative process and the workings of his comedic mind.

This presentation is not polished, without any orchestrated stage design or glamorous lighting setup, instead, it provides a raw, intimate, and unruly experience. In this show, Pryor crafted a near-personal bond with his audience, breaking the fourth wall more often than not and adding a layer of intimacy to his performance.

The venue, the Improv Club itself, is a small, intimate space that complements the act as it gives a sense of Pryor’s beginnings. It is less of a plush performance hall teeming with fans and more of an unconventional gathering of comedy lovers, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and unpredictable. It allows the audience a peek into what an unrefined, unrehearsed improvisation session with Richard Pryor would look like.

Throughout the film, Richard Pryor transitions between skits, satirical commentary, social issues, and personal topics, constantly keeping the audience glued to his every word. Pryor's commentary on racism, socio-economic disparity, and the human condition, is upfront and provocative, yet heartwarmingly hilarious. He does not shy away from controversial subjects, tackling them head-on with his infectious wit and satire.

Pryor's magnetic personality shines brightly as he showcases a range of voices and personas - seamlessly flitting between different characteristics and emotions. His act is not just an uproarious riot of laughter, it also includes moments of vulnerability and introspection, revealing the extraordinary breadth of Pryor's abilities as a performer and storyteller.

Toward the end of the film, Pryor displays his legendary mimicry skills, transforming himself into various characters with an alarming believability, while inducing a consistent flow of laughter. His delivery, use of body language and facial expressions all contribute to a captivating experience that holds the audience's attention hostage.

While Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' doesn't have any outlandish production efforts, it is a powerful testament to Pryor’s impact as a performer and his influence on the stand-up comedy genre. This film is a steppingstone in Pryor's career, representing a transformation from his earlier 'safe' comedic style to the more daring, boundary-pushing brand that he would become best known for.

Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is not just a comedy show, but a visceral exploration into the man behind the laughter. It is a profoundly personal journey that captures the highs and lows of Pryor’s life, presenting them with a kind of honesty that only he could deliver. This feature helps to illustrate why Richard Pryor is widely regarded as one of the most influential comics of all time, revered by fans and comedians alike for his unwavering ability to explore uncomfortable truths with humor and candor.

In sum, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is not just a snapshot of Pryor’s early career, but also an authentic insight into his life, thoughts, and fears, redefining the purpose of comedy and its role in society. It's an essential watch for fans of Pryor and a must-see for anyone who appreciates stand-up comedy's power to provide a deeper understanding of the human experience.