October 17, 2014 - 18:02 AMT
Comedian Chris Rock’s “Top Five” unveils 1st trailer

Paramount has released the first trailer for Chris Rock’s “Top Five” emphasizing the question of whether a successful comedian can stay funny, Variety reported.

The studio acquired the comedy at the Toronto Film Festival for $12.5 million following its world premiere, which generated strong support from critics. Rock portrays stand-up comedian Andre Allen, who’s making a go at being a serious actor.

“I don’t feel feel like doing funny movies any more,” he laments at one point.

Rosario Dawson, who plays a New York Times reporter, asks at another point, “How come you’re not funny anymore?”

The “Top Five” acquisition was the biggest transaction of the Toronto festival, and the studio will spend another $20 million on P&A. Rock also directed the film, told over the course of a single day.

Scott Rudin and Barry Diller financed the project, set to release Dec. 5.