On this day June 24, 1983, the pirate comedy Yellowbeard premiered in theaters. Directed by Mel Damski, the film featured an all star cast including Graham Chapman, Peter Boyle, Cheech Marin, Tommy Chong, Peter Cook, Marty Feldman, Martin Hewitt, Michael Hordern, Eric Idle, Madeline Kahn, James Mason, and John Cleese. With so many legendary comedy names attached, expectations were high.
The story followed the long imprisoned pirate Yellowbeard as he escapes to recover his buried treasure, dragging his reluctant son and a colorful crew into chaotic adventures. Despite its impressive lineup and a mix of British and American comedy styles, the film struggled with critics and earned just 4.3 million dollars at the box office.
80s insight: Yellowbeard is a prime example of how 80s comedies often chased big laughs with ensemble casts, but even with talent stacked high, success was never guaranteed.
The story followed the long imprisoned pirate Yellowbeard as he escapes to recover his buried treasure, dragging his reluctant son and a colorful crew into chaotic adventures. Despite its impressive lineup and a mix of British and American comedy styles, the film struggled with critics and earned just 4.3 million dollars at the box office.
80s insight: Yellowbeard is a prime example of how 80s comedies often chased big laughs with ensemble casts, but even with talent stacked high, success was never guaranteed.
