Hollywood Shuffle (1987) Directed by Robert Townsend

From Wikipedia: Hollywood Shuffle is a comedy film released in 1987 that satirizes the stereotyping of African Americans in both film and television. It was directed and produced by Robert Townsend, and written by Robert Townsend, Keenen Ivory Wayans, and Dom Irrera (uncredited). Comedians featured in this film include Robert Townsend, Keenen Ivory Wayans, Damon Wayans, Dom Irrera, Don Reed, and John Witherspoon. Many of the cast and crew later became involved in the Fox TV sketch comedy series In Living Color (1990-1994), and the style of humor is similar.

Hollywood Shuffle was produced on a very tight budget. Townsend personally financed the movie with his own credit cards, and, in order to avoid obtaining permits, he asked his crew to wear college sweatshirts to pose as students.

The film’s trailer (included on the MGM DVD release), which is hosted by Townsend, jokes about the lack of funds. As the trailer ends, Townsend begs the audience to see the film as the set’s furniture is repossessed. The trailer ends as Townsend is forced to use a disposable lighter when the electricity is turned off.