Backdrop preview Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling backdrop
Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling

Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling (1986)

May 02, 1986 1h 37m Drama Comedy Fantasy

Although Jo Jo Dancer has achieved success as a stand-up comedian, he hasn't found happiness. After receiving severe burns in a narcotics-related incident, Jo Jo remains in a coma, and, while in this state, he looks back on his life. Drifting off into memories of his troubled childhood, Jo Jo revisits his youth, recalling his eventual rise to fame and the decadence that followed. As he considers his existence, he must decide if he wants to go on living or not.

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Directed by Richard Pryor

Cast

Richard Pryor
Richard Pryor

Jo Jo Dancer / Alter Ego

Debbie Allen
Debbie Allen

Michelle

Art Evans
Art Evans

Arturo

Fay Hauser
Fay Hauser

Grace

Barbara Williams
Barbara Williams

Dawn

Carmen McRae
Carmen McRae

Grandmother

Paula Kelly
Paula Kelly

Satin Doll

Diahnne Abbott
Diahnne Abbott

Mother

Scoey Mitchell
Scoey Mitchell

Father

Billy Eckstine
Billy Eckstine

Johnny Barnett

Tanya Boyd
Tanya Boyd

Alicia

Wings Hauser
Wings Hauser

Cliff

E'Lon Cox

Little Jo Jo

Michael Ironside
Michael Ironside

Detective Lawrence

J.J. Barry

Sal

Crew

Director
  • Richard Pryor
Producer
  • Richard Pryor

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Richard Pryor 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1986, 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 Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life Is Calling took approximately 19 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $20.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The musical score contains over 75 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1986, when this film was released:
  • Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

Details

  • Release Date: May 2, 1986
  • Runtime: 1h 37m
  • Budget: $20,000,000
  • Revenue: $18,034,150

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