Chris Rock’s new movie “Top Five” is filled with tear-jerking laughs and host an all-star cast that would put any movie to shame. Gabrielle Union, Rosario Dawson, Kevin Hart, Cedric the Entertainer, Adam Sandler and Tracy Morgan are just a few notable names to mention. Chris Rock plays Andre Allen, a comedian who is actively trying to reinvent himself as a serious actor.
Playing Andre’s assistant is J.B Smoove, an American actor, writer and standup comedian, known to bring the laughs wherever he is. He’s starred in films such as “Pootie Tang,” and “We Bought a Zoo.” While Smoove typically plays the comic in movies, he opted for a more serious role this time, hoping to open more doors to better opportunities.
“The good thing about this film is Chris Rock cast me in this movie not as the over-the-top J.B. In this movie, I’m actually acting more like an actor,” Smoove said. “This film is going to help me a lot; it will open other doors for me as an actor, as opposed to just a comedian actor.”
Smoove described “Top Five” as one of his biggest accomplishments to date and said that he has gained a lot of knowledge about himself as an actor in the movie.
Working with some of the most talented comedians in the industry, it’s easy to assume how many funny moments happened behind the scenes.
“Oh, it’s so fun. The good thing about Chris Rock is that he loves working with his friends. So, this is just like a reunion,” said Smoove.
However, while working on set with friends can be a breeze, Smoove said comedians like him work very hard to keep the jokes rolling.
“As comics, we are also salesmen. We have to sell ourselves first, then, we sell our product to you,” he said.
Being a comedian is not as easy as most people think it is, he said. He also has his own words of wisdom for inspiring comedians.
“The first thing I ever did when I started doing standup and also when I wanted to be a writer was I took an improv class, because one thing that improv does is prepare you for anything and everything,” he said. “I think for anyone who wants to be a writer, anyone who wants to be in front of the camera or behind the camera, it helps you communicate with people better. It gives you more confidence in yourself.”
“Top Five” will be out in theaters on Dec. 12.
