Film Review: Good Hair

Let me begin by saying I will never, ever complain about my hair or the expense involved with maintaining my hair again.

Having said that, I found the documentary, Good Hair, more informative than the anticipated funny, although there were several entertaining scenes that could have easily been lampooned in the hands of someone other than Chris Rock. I never got the impression that Rock was doing more than asking the questions, listening empathetically to the answers, and creating a conversation about the subject of hair, specifically African American hair. I learned, not surprisingly, a lot about a subject I only thought I knew. 

The documentary, written and produced by Chris Rock, evolved from the question by Rock's young daughter, Lola, as to why she didn't have "good hair". Good hair, it seems, is equated to straight hair or relaxed hair or even a white person's hair. From that question, Rock begins an exploration of the hair industry and the personal feelings surrounding one's hair, specifically black women. There are political aspects to the topic as well: how white people own much of the black hair products' industry; the expenses involved in maintaining one's hair; and, in my opinion, how some of the human hair is acquired.  The scene I could not get out of my mind was women in India having their heads shaved as a sacrifice to God while their temple was selling the hair for profit.

I never thought I would be saying this but Chris Rock created an excellent documentary.  If you are interested in the subject, I would highly recommend it.  4 of 5 stars