This week, we're stepping back to 1982 with Ron Howard's comedy Night Shift (1982). Featuring Henry Winkler as a timid morgue attendant and Michael Keaton in his breakout role as an eccentric entrepreneur, this film explores an unconventional business venture that turns the night shift upside down. Does this early '80s comedy still deliver laughs today? Let's find out!
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Release Details:
• Title: Night Shift
• Year: 1982
• Director: Ron Howard
• Writers: Lowell Ganz, Babaloo Mandel
• Top Billed Stars: Henry Winkler, Michael Keaton, Shelley Long
• Running Time: 105 minutes
• Country: United States
• Release Date: July 30, 1982
In Night Shift, Chuck Lumley (Henry Winkler) is a meek former stockbroker who now works as a night shift attendant at a New York City morgue. His routine life takes a wild turn when he's paired with the energetic and entrepreneurial Bill "Blaze" Blazejowski (Michael Keaton). Together, they hatch a plan to run a call-girl service out of the morgue, aiming to provide a safer environment for the women involved. As their unconventional business thrives, Chuck finds himself falling for his neighbor, Belinda (Shelley Long), a kind-hearted prostitute. The trio navigates comedic challenges, personal dilemmas, and the complexities of their newfound venture.
Background & Interesting Details:
• Directorial Milestone: Night Shift was one of Ron Howard's early directorial efforts, showcasing his transition from acting to directing.
• Michael Keaton's Breakthrough: The film marked Michael Keaton's first starring role, earning him acclaim for his dynamic performance.
• Soundtrack Highlights: The film features the song "That's What Friends Are For," performed by Rod Stewart, which gained further popularity when covered by Dionne Warwick and friends in 1985.
• Cameo Appearances: The movie includes brief appearances by a young Kevin Costner as "Frat Boy #1" and Shannen Doherty as a Bluebell scout.
Other Projects (Writer/Director/Main Leads):
• Ron Howard: Directed Splash (1984), Apollo 13 (1995), and A Beautiful Mind (2001).
• Henry Winkler: Known for his role as Fonzie in Happy Days (1974–1984) and appearances in The Waterboy (1998) and Arrested Development (2003–2019).
• Michael Keaton: Starred in Beetlejuice (1988), Batman (1989), and Birdman (2014).
• Shelley Long: Famous for her role as Diane Chambers in Cheers (1982–1993) and films like Outrageous Fortune (1987) and The Brady Bunch Movie (1995).
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