We Don't Die, We Multiply: The Robin Harris Story

Robin Harris, a name synonymous with unapologetic, edgy, and irreverent comedy, left an indelible mark on the entertainment world. A close look at his extraordinary life, tragically cut short, paints a vivid picture of a talented individual who left an impact on an endless lineage of comedians. In 'We Don't Die, We Multiply: The Robin Harris Story,' a captivating documentary delves into the memories of those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with the charismatic Robin Harris. Compared to the conventional stand-up comedians of his era, Robin's style was refreshingly distinctive, combining his sharp wit, raw storytelling, and an unwavering confidence that drew audiences in. He didn't mince his words, never hesitated to take on the tough subjects, and effortlessly tackled topics that would often spark discomfort and laughter in equal measure. As he stood on stage, Robin embodied the true essence of comedy: a masterly balance of self-deprecation, storytelling, and the uncanny ability to connect with his audience, even in the face of the most difficult subjects. Those who knew him share anecdotes that paint a multifaceted picture of a man as much defined by his quick wit as his vulnerability. A close-friend-turned-mentor, Robert Townsend, who would often go on to become a significant influence in Robin's career, recounts how the two would often rehearse stand-up routines together. These sessions allowed Robin to not just hone his craft but to confront the darker aspects of the city he hailed from - Chicago. It was in these rehearsals that the makings of his unique voice as a storyteller began to take shape. The bond between Townsend and Harris would have a lasting impact on both their careers, paving the way for a new wave of groundbreaking comedians who dared to challenge the status quo. Harris's friendship with fellow comedic legend Bernie Mac, whose early days in Chicago often intertwined with Harris's, serves as a powerful testament to their shared experiences. Bernie's own journey, which traversed the rough roads of stand-up comedy, resonates deeply with the struggles Robin faced early on. Though both men had different personalities, their drive to succeed in spite of the harsh realities of the city was fueled by an identical passion - the unrelenting quest for laughter. For a number of aspiring comedians who followed in Harris's footsteps, including the celebrated Cedric the Entertainer and Martin Lawrence, Robin's influence cannot be overstated. Cedric reminisces about Robin's unwavering encouragement when he first entered the Chicago comedy scene as an eager, wide-eyed newcomer. It was Harris who offered sage advice and reassured him that, despite setbacks, his unyielding determination was the key to success. Cedric's own meteoric rise to fame, coupled with Martin's, echoes a narrative thread that runs throughout the documentary: Robin's impact on the lives of fellow comedians, long after his untimely passing, was profound and far-reaching. Harris's untimely death at the age of 37, to an asphyxiating condition that took its toll before anyone quite realized the breadth of his contributions, serves as a poignant reminder of the capricious nature of life. Yet even in loss, Robin's artistic legacy continues to leave an indelible mark. His influence can be seen in the work of comedians that came of age after his passing, each drawing inspiration from his fearlessness, creative genius, and ability to tell raw, unflinching stories that cut to the core of the experiences of those whose lives weren't far removed from his own. The cinematic tapestry woven together by the documentary masterfully juxtaposes the memories of those closest to Robin with a sampling of his incendiary stand-up routines. Each clip is a testament to the man's innate gift for storytelling and his unwavering ability to challenge his audience, often pushing them to confront the hard realities he addressed. Whether chronicling his early days as a struggling, fledgling comic, or capturing the zenith of his success when he emerged as one of the country's leading black comedians of the 1980s, the documentary paints a comprehensive picture of an extraordinary individual, the depth of whose impact still resonates within the community he left behind. By capturing the essence of Robin's art, spirit, and unrelenting drive, 'We Don't Die, We Multiply: The Robin Harris Story' has become an essential tribute to a comedian whose legacy transcends generations. This documentary is not just a poignant reminiscence of a remarkable figure, but an inspiring testament to the enduring power of his influence, a testament to which his art continues to multiply as a new wave of artists pays homage to the inimitable Robin Harris.