On this day May 22, 1981, Bustin Loose premiered in theaters starring Richard Pryor, Cicely Tyson and Paul Mooney. Directed by Oz Scott, the film follows an ex-convict who is assigned to drive a group of special needs children and their teacher across the country. What begins as a punishment turns into a heartfelt journey of growth, healing and unexpected bonding.
The movie blended comedy and drama in a way only Richard Pryor could deliver and was a box office hit, grossing over 31 million dollars in the United States. Pryor’s performance received strong praise for balancing his signature humor with heartfelt emotion.
Fun fact: Richard Pryor co-wrote the screenplay and the movie’s soundtrack was composed by Roberta Flack.