A daughter inquires of her father "why don't I have good hair?" The father cannot believe what he has heard and sets out to get some answers of his own. What he encounters is surprising, outrageous and fascinating.
He travels from Los Angeles to New York to Atlanta and India to find out why black culture deems European and Asian style hair to be more desirable than any other. Along the way he uncovers the purported reason's and issues that drive this belief. Our father gets to the truth through a series of 'stranger than fiction' observations and inquisitive humor, that only Chris Rock can masterfully employ.
Along the way we pass through an intricate world of weaves, religious sacrifice and competitive fires on par with prize fighting. It's a nine billion dollar annual business, that is only marginally controlled by the community it serves. Yet, it is also a profession that enables it's hard working professionals throughout the US to live the American dream.
Throughout the film, Mr. Rock virtually leaves no stone unturned to understand why his daughter should have to question her own head of hair. There are many explanations and justifications that are both zany and sad, but it all comes down to each individuals interpretation of what constitutes beauty.
My money is on the great Paul Mooney, who splashed a bit of humor on his sad but true realization:
"If your hair's relaxed, white people are relaxed -
If your hair is nappy,they're not happy."
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