Daily Time Capsule

January 16, 1987 - Critical Condition Premiered in Theaters

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Pete

Pete

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On this day, January 16, 1987, the comedy film Critical Condition, directed by Michael Apted, premiered in theaters. Starring Richard Pryor, the film combined Pryor’s signature humor with a chaotic story set in a hospital.

The plot follows Kevin Lenahan (Pryor), a con man who fakes insanity to avoid prison time but ends up in charge of a hospital during a power outage. Hilarity ensues as he navigates the chaos and pretends to be a doctor. The film also features small roles by Bob Saget, Garrett Morris, and Wesley Snipes in one of his earliest appearances.

With a budget of $14 million, Critical Condition earned $20.2 million at the box office, showcasing Pryor’s continued ability to draw audiences with his comedic brilliance.

Fun Fact: This was one of the final films directed by Michael Apted before he transitioned to more dramatic projects, including the acclaimed Gorillas in the Mist (1988).

Trivia Question: What 1989 comedy film also starred Richard Pryor alongside Gene Wilder, marking their fourth collaboration?
 
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