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October 2006
WE DON’T DIE, WE MULTIPLY: THE ROBIN HARRIS STORY DVD Review

By Kam Williams

WE DON’T DIE, WE MULTIPLY: THE ROBIN HARRIS STORY DVD Review

Cast: Robin Harris, with commentary from Cedric the Entertainer, D.L Hughley, Robert Townsend, and Reginald Hudlin
Director: Topper Carew
Format: NTSC Language: English
Rating UNRATED
Studio: Urban Works DVD
Release Date: October 17, 2006
Unrated
Running time: 133 minutes

DVD Features include:
Exclusive Never-Before-Seen Stand-Up Footage
Exetta Harris performs a song dedicated to her late husband
Robin Harris Jr. performs a rap dedicated to his father
   

 

Biography of Comedian Robin Harris Released on DVD

Robin Harris (1953-1990) was one of those stand-up comics that other comedians raved about and went out of their way to catch live. This explained why so many of his colleagues, including Cedric the Entertainer, DL Hughley, Joe Torry and director Reggie Hudlin make touching tributes crediting Harris with influencing their work in We Don't Die, We Multiply, a half bio-pic, half concert flick directed by Topper Carew. Hailing from the Windy City, Robin’s raunchy “in your face” style resonated with fans even though he had the house lights turned up to ridicule members of the audience. Like a black Don Rickles, he somehow managed to make fun without antagonizing anyone, and this ability is what endeared Harris with folks from all walks of life.

Early after moving to Los Angeles, we learn that Robin got a gig as the emcee at a nightclub in South Central. As word of his comedy genius spread across town, some of the best in the business started coming round to catch his act. This led to his landing roles in such flicks as I’m Gonna Git You Suck and Harlem Nights, as well as Spike Lee’s Mo’ Better Blues and Do the Right Thing. But he’s undoubtedly best remembered as Pop, Kid ‘n’ Play’s father in the original House Party in 1990. Sadly, that same year, at the peak of his fame, Robin Harris died of a heart attack at the age of 36, a couple of hours after wowing the crowd at a sold-out performance.

Besides accolades from his contemporaries, the DVD features a variety of revealing reminiscences by friends and relatives who felt blessed by his presence, all of which adds up to paint a picture of a man who was clearly special both on and off stage.

Excellent (3.5 stars)