Blue Collar

The 1978 film features a powerhouse trio of lead actors: Richard Pryor, Harvey Keitel, and Yaphet Kotto. They play three auto workers in a struggling Rust Belt community who decide to rob their corrupt local union. The dynamic between these three distinct actors drives the film's intense narrative.

The film explores the struggles of three Detroit auto workers who, frustrated by their union's corruption and their own financial struggles, attempt to rob the union safe. Instead of finding cash, they find ledgers linking the union to mob ties, leading to a dangerous blackmail scheme. It is a gritty critique of working-class challenges and organized labor.

Yes, Paul Schrader co-wrote the screenplay for Blue Collar alongside his brother, Leonard Schrader. Paul also took on the role of director for the 1978 project, marking one of his early directorial efforts. The script blends their gritty dramatic sensibilities with sharp socio-political commentary.

Despite starring Richard Pryor, Blue Collar is a serious crime drama rather than a comedy, though it contains dark, cynical humor. The film deals heavily with the bleak realities of working-class life and the dangers of union corruption. Pryor delivers a notably dramatic and grounded performance alongside his co-stars.