A loser is gifted with a $30 million inheritance, which he
must spend in 30 days in order to inherit $300 million. COMEDY
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Brewster's Millions (1985)Directed by Walter Hill
Written by Herschel Weingrod and Timothy Harris Starring Richard Pryor, John Candy, Lonette McKee, Stephen Collins, Pat Hingle, Jerry Orbach, Tovah Feldshuh Remake of 1945's Brewster's Millions Based on the novel by George Barr McCutcheon |
Brewster's Millions is a decent 80's comedy that stands entirely on the combined efforts of Richard Pryor and John Candy. However, a lot of the situational comedy falls flat, and the ending is so abrupt without any real conclusion given. We never get to see Monty Brewster (Pryor) reconcile with his best friend Spike (Candy). It's a big fat let down, to be honest. But while the ending leaves a bit to be desired, the journey isn't half bad, and Pryor was always at the top of his game.
I think this film really could've benefited from an R-rating. A lot of the comedy could've gone farther. The idea of a man inheriting a bunch of money that he has to squander in order to get a much larger amount of money is quite brilliant and ripe for comedy. Pryor and Candy do the best they can, but the rest of the cast is pretty dull, apart from a hilarious cameo from Rick Moranis. Overall, could've been better. Brewster's Millions is a fun watch for several moments, but the ending really kicks the movie right in the balls. There's very little character development or consequences, and the end result is pretty predictable. But again, Pryor is absolutely on his game, and he just about keeps the movie from falling into cinematic ruin. |