Cast
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Gene Wilder
as Skip Donahue
Richard Pryor
as Harry Monroe
Georg Stanford Brown
as Rory Schultebrand
JoBeth Williams
as Meredith
Miguel Ángel Suárez
as Jesus Ramirez
Craig T. Nelson
as Deputy Ward Wilson
Barry Corbin
as Warden Walter Beatty
Charles Weldon
as Blade
Nicolas Coster
as Warden Henry Sampson
Joel Brooks
as Len Garber
Jonathan Banks
as Jack Graham
Erland van Lidth
as Grossberger
Lewis van Bergen
as Guard #1
Karmin Murcelo
as Teresa Ramirez
Franklyn Ajaye
as Young Man in Hospital
Crew
Director
- Sidney Poitier
Writer
- Bruce Jay Friedman
Producer
- Hannah Weinstein
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Stir Crazy represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Crime cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Sidney Poitier brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Stir Crazy took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $10.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 146 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 60 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 313 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1980, when this film was released:
- MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Stir Crazy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ricochet, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Stir Crazy subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like A Perfect World and Coming to America explore similar territory, Stir Crazy stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 12, 1980
- Runtime: 1h 51m
- Budget: $10,000,000
- Revenue: $101,300,000
