Intro:

Robert Townsend has been a mainstream comic for quite some time (over 15 years).  Before there was Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle or even the Wayans – there was Townsend.  Townsend's satirical brand of comedy inspired shows like "In Living Color" and eventually Black comedy shows like "Def Comedy Jam".  "Partners in Crime Vol. 2" was an HBO comedy special that aired in 1991.  We get to see some early looks at a few then unknown comics like Sinbad, David Allen Grier and John Witherspoon.

Audio/Video:

 Audio is presented in 5.1 Dolby Digital sound, however most of the sound stage is focused on the center channel.  The video is a little soft – but that's to be expected with the dated material.

Scene Breakdown:

1. Opening Monologue. – features an opening performance by rapper Kool Mo Dee and his old school hit "Wild Wild West" and Robert thanking HBO for giving him the opportunity to have a special.
2. Townsend Talk Show – Skit with Robert doing a talk show.  There is a funny bit about easy listening rap that features Damon and Marlon Wayans.  There is also an audience question from John Witherspoon.
3. Sinbad – a brief stand up routine from Sinbad – about 4 minutes long.
4. How the West Was Won – Western skit that features David Allen Grier and John Witherspoon. 
5. Franklyn Ajaye – Stand up comedy from the "Jazz Comedian" Franklyn Ajaye.
6. Robert's Prom with Howard Hewitt – Skit about Robert's Prom.  Howard Hewitt provides the vocals for the dancing.
7. The Bold, The Black, The Beautiful.  Skit with a satirical look at the Bold and the Beautiful.
8. Damon Wayans – Stand up featuring Damon Wayans.
9. Robert Sings – Robert sings with a church choir and Howard Hewitt.
10. Show Closing

Extras:

• Include previews of other Urbanworks features, including:  DL Hughley, Cedric the Entertainer and the Shaquille O'Neal Celebrity Roast.
• Robert Townsend Filmography

Overall:

In my opinion, Robert Townsend doesn't get the credit he deserves as a groundbreaking Black comic (watch 1987's "Hollywood Shuffle").  The "Partners in Crime" series, really allowed him to showcase what was then unknown Black comedians.  If you're a fan of comedy, this one is worth adding to your collection.  The audio and video won't wow you, but the content will make you laugh.  One note – like all Urbanworks features, this one starts with a nearly 2 minute long commercial that you can't skip.  Recommended.