Customer Reviews

Don't Play Us Cheap [VHS]

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This movie is like a "gospel" musical. I thought the plot was wierd. It's about a demon, sent by the devil, to ruin a party. In the mean time he falls in love with the the party girl. Atleast, that's what I got out of the movie. The plot is hard to follow. The songs are wonderful, especially the one's sung by Mabel King. The movie also stars Esther Rolle, of Good Times. I recommend this movie, but pay attention or you'll get lost. Pay special attention to the last song, "Smash Em", funny stuff.

It's really unfortunate if you don't get this movie. It's probably the best parody satire gospel morality musical play done on film that you'll ever see. Yes it's weird. Brilliance can be weird. Don't assume because it's so transparent that it's simple. It's not. Don't assume because the budget is low that it's tepid. It's not. It dives to the core and emerges with treasures. All this, and the music is exceptional.

It wasn't the type of movie I thought it would be. It was more of a musical stage play. It was still enjoyable

Don't Play Us Cheap

I purchased this thinking that video would be a good film but I was confused when watching it .

This film does have a strange story about muses who try to destroy a Harlem house party, but wind up getting involved with the participants in the process. However, if there is a soundtrack CD out there, it would be nice because there is some great music in this film. Some nice slice-of life Black Americana is included also, particularly regarding the relationship with Esther Rolle and her niece Rhetta Hughes. Unfortunately, Van Peebles is his usual self, being long on bizarre symbolism that escapes the average viewer (the introduction where he explains the concept of the film is absolutely necessary to understand what's going on). However, as odd as it is, it has some nice moments, good music, and it's at least 75% better than Van Peebles overrated dungheap "Sweet Sweetback."

I am a fan of stage plays but this play was awful from the beginning to its very end. It was not entertaining at ALL. I forced myself to watch the play hoping that it would get better......what a disappointment.