Watch Which Way Is Up?
- R
- 1977
- 1 hr 34 min
-
6.2 (2,027)
Which Way Is Up? is a 1977 comedy film starring Richard Pryor as three different characters. The film is a remake of the 1964 Italian film Seduced and Abandoned (Sedotta e abbandonata). Pryor plays Leroy Jones, a poor laborer who works at a farm picking cotton. Jones is married to Annie Mae (Lonette McKee) and has six children. His life takes a turn when he is promoted to the position of foreman, but his newfound power corrupts him, leading to a series of events that ultimately cost him his job and his family.
In addition to his portrayal of Leroy Jones, Pryor also plays Rufus, a smooth-talking philanderer who seduces Jones' wife, and Reverend Lenox Thomas, a charismatic preacher who becomes involved in Jones' life.
Margaret Avery plays Vanetta, a seductive woman who pursues Rufus. The film also features appearances by Marilyn Coleman, Morgan Woodward, and Paul Mooney.
The film is directed by Michael Schultz and written by Lonne Elder III. The soundtrack includes music by Earth, Wind & Fire.
Which Way Is Up? is a raunchy and irreverent comedy that examines class and race issues in America. Pryor's performances are the highlight of the film, with his ability to convincingly portray characters that are both hilarious and tragic.
The film was not a critical success, with some reviewers criticizing its scatological humor and lack of subtlety. However, audiences responded positively to Pryor's performances, and the film was a box office success.
Ultimately, Which Way Is Up? is an interesting artifact of its time, a film that reflects the era's concerns about social justice and equality while also serving as a showcase for Richard Pryor's immense talent.
In conclusion, Which Way Is Up? is a comedic masterpiece that showcases the immense talent of Richard Pryor. Despite criticisms of its scatological humor and lack of subtlety, the film remains an important artifact of its time, a reflection of America's concerns about social justice and equality.
Which Way Is Up? is a 1977 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.