In the realm of workplace revenge movies, few films capture the essence of working-class frustration and triumph like "Take This Job and Shove It" (1981). This comedy-drama, set against the backdrop of a brewery, offers a unique blend of humor and satire, making it a standout in its genre. While it may not have achieved blockbuster status, its cult following and relatable themes continue to resonate with audiences today. Using Critily's comprehensive film analysis tools, we can delve deeper into what makes this movie a fascinating study in workplace narratives and box office dynamics.
1981 Comedy Films AnalysisThe year 1981 was a notable one for comedy films, with a mix of slapstick, satire, and workplace humor gracing the silver screen. "Take This Job and Shove It" stood out for its unique blend of comedy and drama, offering a more nuanced take on the workplace revenge genre. Films like "Stripes" and "Arthur" dominated the box office, but "Take This Job and Shove It" carved its own niche by focusing on the struggles of the working class. Critily's genre comparison tools highlight how this film differed from its contemporaries by tackling more serious themes amidst the laughter.
Brewery Industry Satire"Take This Job and Shove It" uses the brewery industry as a backdrop to explore themes of corporate greed and worker exploitation. The film's satire is sharp and incisive, drawing parallels to real-world labor struggles. By setting the story in a brewery, the filmmakers were able to create a microcosm of the working-class experience, making the narrative more relatable and impactful. Critily's thematic analysis features can help viewers understand the deeper layers of satire and social commentary embedded in the film.
Working-Class NarrativesThe film's focus on working-class narratives sets it apart from other workplace revenge movies. The characters in "Take This Job and Shove It" are not just seeking personal vengeance; they are fighting for their rights and dignity as workers. This collective struggle adds a layer of depth to the story, making it more than just a comedy. The film's portrayal of unionization and worker solidarity offers a glimpse into the labor movements of the time. Using Critily's character analysis tools, one can appreciate the complexities and motivations of the characters, making the viewing experience more enriching.
Box Office Performance MetricsDespite its cult following, "Take This Job and Shove It" did not perform exceptionally well at the box office. According to Critily's box office performance metrics, the film grossed approximately $10 million worldwide, a modest figure compared to other comedies of the time. Several factors contributed to its lackluster performance, including limited marketing and distribution challenges. However, its enduring appeal lies in its relatable themes and memorable characters, which continue to attract new viewers decades after its release.
Why Did Take This Job Flop?Several factors contributed to the film's underperformance at the box office. One significant issue was the timing of its release. The early 1980s were a competitive period for comedy films, and "Take This Job and Shove It" struggled to stand out amidst more high-profile releases. Additionally, the film's marketing campaign was not as aggressive as those of its competitors, limiting its reach and impact. Critily's historical box office data can provide a more detailed analysis of the film's performance in comparison to its contemporaries.
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Frequently Asked Questions"Take This Job and Shove It" is a comedy film directed by Gus Trikonis, featuring a star-studded cast led by Art Carney, Barbara Hershey, and Robert Hays. The movie revolves around the employees of a struggling brewery who decide to take matters into their own hands when their jobs are threatened. It's a humorous take on workers' rights and unionization, filled with memorable characters and witty dialogue.
Can you explain the ending of "Take This Job and Shove It" without giving away too much?The ending of "Take This Job and Shove It" ties up the story in a satisfying and humorous manner, staying true to the film's comedic tone. Without giving away spoilers, it involves the employees finding an innovative solution to their problems, leading to a heartwarming and uplifting conclusion. For a more detailed analysis, you can refer to Critily's film breakdown.
Is "Take This Job and Shove It" based on a book?No, "Take This Job and Shove It" is not based on a book. The film's screenplay was written directly for the screen by Frank Ray Perilli. However, the title is inspired by the popular country song of the same name by Johnny Paycheck, which reflects the movie's theme of worker dissatisfaction.
Are there any sequels or connected films to "Take This Job and Shove It"?No, there are no direct sequels or connected films to "Take This Job and Shove It." The story is self-contained, and the characters and events are not continued in any other movies. However, the themes of workers' rights and unionization can be found in other films, which Critily has explored in various articles.
Where was "Take This Job and Shove It" filmed?"Take This Job and Shove It" was primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California, with some scenes shot in other parts of Southern California. The brewery scenes were filmed at a real brewery, which added authenticity to the setting. For more details on filming locations, Critily's behind-the-scenes features are a great resource.
What was the budget for "Take This Job and Shove It"?The exact budget for "Take This Job and Shove It" is not publicly disclosed, but it is estimated to be around $5 million, which was a moderate budget for a comedy film at that time. The budget allowed for a solid cast and decent production values, contributing to the film's overall quality.
What was the director's vision for "Take This Job and Shove It"?Director Gus Trikonis aimed to create a comedy that would resonate with the working class, blending humor with social commentary. He wanted to make a film that was not only entertaining but also highlighted the struggles and triumphs of everyday workers. Trikonis' vision is evident in the film's tone and storytelling, which Critily's director spotlights delve into further.
What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "Take This Job and Shove It"?One of the main production challenges was balancing the comedic elements with the more serious themes of workers' rights and unionization. Additionally, coordinating the large ensemble cast and managing the various filming locations presented logistical challenges. Despite these hurdles, the production team successfully delivered a cohesive and entertaining film.
How did "Take This Job and Shove It" perform at the box office?"Take This Job and Shove It" had a modest box office performance, grossing approximately $7.5 million domestically, according to official studio figures. While not a blockbuster, the film's earnings were respectable given its budget and the competitive landscape of 1981 releases. For more box office insights, Critily's financial analyses provide a deeper dive.
Did "Take This Job and Shove It" receive any awards or nominations?"Take This Job and Shove It" did not receive any major awards or nominations. However, the film has gained a cult following over the years and is appreciated for its unique blend of comedy and social commentary. Critily's awards archives offer a comprehensive look at the accolades received by various films.
What are the critic scores for "Take This Job and Shove It"?"Take This Job and Shove It" holds a rating of 5.8/10 on IMDb, based on user reviews. While it may not have received widespread critical acclaim, the film has been praised for its humor and the performances of its cast. For a more detailed critique, Critily's film reviews section is an excellent resource.
How was "Take This Job and Shove It" received by audiences?Audience reception for "Take This Job and Shove It" has been generally positive, with many viewers appreciating the film's comedic take on workers' rights. The movie has developed a loyal following over the years, with fans often quoting its memorable lines and praising its ensemble cast. For audience insights and fan discussions, Critily's community forums are a great place to explore.
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