(Checkitenterprises)

Most of the videos that Louis C.K. hosts on his website document his own live stand-up performances. But the comedian was so moved by Check It, a 2016 film about a gay black street gang, that he’s now distributing the documentary on his site. And the film takes place right here in D.C.

Directors Toby Oppenheimer and Dana Flor are no strangers to Washington stories. Their 2009 film The Nine Lives of Marion Barry looked at the conflicted image of the local political legend who was a hero to some and a scoundrel to others.

Check It came about after the Barry film wrapped up. Flor told AFI Docs (where Check It received its local premiere last year) that she and Oppenheimer were planning to work on a film about the D.C. go-go scene. “That brought me in contact with Mo, an ex-convict, go-go promoter, and gang counselor. While he thought a go-go documentary would be awesome, he thought there was a more pressing tale to tell: the Check It, a tough posse of off-the-chain gay gangbangers who were also fashion models on the catwalk. Once we met the crew, there was no turning back.”

Louis C.K. admits, “Look, I know this isn’t what you’re expecting from me. Nor am I the guy you’re expecting to get this film from … When I saw this film, I knew that no one I know will ever see it.” So he’s hoping that fans interested in his comedy will appreciate something he’s very serious about.

“I do this with great confidence because it’s a powerful film and I know that, whoever you are, you’re going to love it.”

Checki It! Can be purchased for $5 on louisck,net.

Watch a trailer introduced by Louis C.K.