Top Five

Chris Rock has plenty in common with Andre Allen, the character he creates for himself in Top Five, a sharp showbiz satire that finds Rock returning to both starring and directing on the big screen after an extended absence.

The break seems to have allowed Rock a welcome opportunity to freshen his material without softening his edge, in this instance playing a character for which life imitates art in many ways.

Andre is a fledgling comedian whose latest film is a serious historical drama that marks a change of pace from his usual slapstick comedies and stand-up routines. At the same time, he’s making plans for his wedding to a reality television star (Gabrielle Union) that’s set to air as part of a cable special.

He returns home for a press junket, during which the criticism causes him to reflect on his career and ponder his future, especially as a journalist (Rosario Dawson) interviews him for a profile piece.

Rock’s clever script is consistently funny, with some potent jabs and politics and pop culture, even if some of the jokes feel crude and forced. While it hints at self-deprecation, the film doesn’t take as many risks as it could have, and you never quite get the sense that he’s left his comfort zone.

Andre’s relationship with the writer feels contrived, as she plays an ill-conceived straight man of sorts whose back story lacks credibility. If only journalism were this easy – just getting a celebrity to pour out their heart to you on a whim, and then you spend the day getting to know one another without the pressure of deadlines or social-media buzz. News flash: that’s not the way it works.

More intriguing is his journey of personal redemption and career resurrection, as the film examines the struggle of a comic actor to reinvent himself and be taken seriously. A pivotal sequence where he visits family members conveys an easygoing authenticity.

Some of the conversations suggest the influence of Woody Allen, especially given the New York setting. Rock keeps the direction simple, and leans heavily on cameos from some of his friends.

Of course, Rock has mined personal experiences before, most notably in the coming-of-age sitcom “Everybody Hates Chris,” but Top Five shows more maturity as a writer and a greater sensitivity as a performer, without compromising the ability to make us laugh.

Rated R, 102 minutes.