Chris Rock: Never Scared

While not nearly the epic performance of comedy-God proportions that was '96's "Bring The Pain," or even a show as good as his relaxed (by Chris Rock standards) '99 follow up "Bigger and Blacker," "Never Scared" is Chris Rock doing once again what he was meant to do. Rock, as demonstrated by his uneven movies, doesn't quite dominate any other medium like he does stand-up, and if anything it's great to see him at it again after a 4 year layoff. The material is somewhat more serious (abortion, gay marriage, the war in Iraq and a pointed defense of affirmative action are amongst the topics), and some of the lighter stuff has been covered in past shows (relationships, to name one) but to hear Rock's patented gravelly voice/shouted delivery is sweet music to the comedy ears. He rants better than anyone in the entertainment industry, and his frequent swears are anthemic when they would be perceived as simply overkill from anyone else.

Rock is not quite as over-the-top as in past performances. At a few instances his exasperation seems a little forced, but throughout the show it's relatively unnoticeable. I won't ruin any one-liners, but there were a few classics. All in all a great way to spend 80 minutes, even if it doesn't quite compare to the high standard Rock has set for himself.

Bring The Pain: 10 Bigger and Blacker: 8.5 Never Scared: 7.5