Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Signature crassness serves no purpose in weak '80s comedy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 16+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Critical Condition
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Kevin Lanahan (Richard Pryor) is an unsuccessful, small-time real-estate developer who finds himself in CRITICAL CONDITION when his deal with a mobster goes south during a bust. The only way to avoid prison would be to prove he's insane. While he's in the psych ward undergoing evaluation, an opportunity to escape comes along in the form of a hurricane that cuts all electricity to the hospital. As he's sneaking his way out, the rookie administrator mistakes Kevin for a new ER doctor she's been expecting. Even without knowing the first thing about medicine, he discovers he has real leadership qualities and is a powerful and positive force for good. But is it enough to make him alter his plans for escape?
Is It Any Good?
Teens and families looking to discover the genius behind one of modern comedy's most influential figures, and even those just looking for a few good belly laughs, should keep looking. The weak, predictable story and stiff, corny dialogue don't offer genuine laughs. And unfortunately, Richard Pryor's charisma and talent aren't enough to get us caring about his character -- he's just not at the top of his game. Sadness, and maybe more than a little fatigue, seem to be lurking just under the surface of his performance. Sure, there's plenty of crass, profane humor if that's what you're in the mood for, but Critical Condition has so little else to offer that it mostly comes across as tired schtick.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about all the swearing in Critical Condition. Does it make the movie funnier? Does it help make the characters believable? Why do you think there's so much of it?
What is the movie's attitude about drug use? Did you know that Richard Pryor himself struggled with addiction? Does that change your opinion about how the "junkies" are portrayed?
Kevin learns he's capable of a lot more than he thought when he's suddenly in a leadership role. Have you ever been surprised to learn what you're capable of? What chances have you had, or might you take in the future, to learn something new about yourself?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 16, 1987
- On DVD or streaming : July 6, 2004
- Cast : Richard Pryor , Rubén Blades , Joe Mantegna
- Director : Michael Apted
- Inclusion Information : Black Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Paramount Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 100 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 15, 2023
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