Blue Collar
Performance & Direction: Blue Collar Review
Last updated: February 17, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Blue Collar (1978) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.3/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Drama is often anchored by its ensemble, and Blue Collar features a noteworthy lineup led by Richard Pryor . Supported by the likes of Harvey Keitel and Yaphet Kotto , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Blue Collar
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1978, Blue Collar is a Drama, Crime film directed by Paul Schrader. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Richard Pryor.
Ending Explained: Blue Collar
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Paul Schrader, Blue Collar resolves its central conflict while maintaining thematic consistency. The finale has been praised for its approach to drama resolution.
The emotional climax centers on character transformation involving Richard Pryor, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes with clear resolution of its central conflicts, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Main characters complete meaningful transformations, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the drama themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Blue Collar reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Blue Collar Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Blue Collar incorporates elements from real criminal cases. As a drama, crime film directed by Paul Schrader, it navigates the space between factual accuracy and narrative engagement for Richard Pryor's character.
Historical Context
The film balances historical fidelity with cinematic storytelling. Core events maintain connection to source material while adapting for theatrical presentation.
The production demonstrates respect for its source material, focusing on emotional truth over strict chronology.
Accuracy Assessment: Blue Collar adapts its source material for dramatic purposes. The film prioritizes thematic resonance over documentary precision.
Who Should Watch Blue Collar?
Worth Watching If You:
- Enjoy Drama films and don't mind familiar tropes
- Are a fan of Richard Pryor or the director
- Want a character-driven story with emotional moments
Box Office Collection: Blue Collar
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $1.7M |
| Worldwide Gross | $6.5M |
| Trade Verdict | CLEAN HIT |
Blue Collar Budget
The estimated production budget for Blue Collar is $1.7M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Blue Collar
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Blue Collar Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
MUBI Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoBlue Collar Parents Guide & Age Rating
1978 AdvisoryWondering about Blue Collar age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Blue Collar is 114 minutes (1h 54m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.3/10, and global performance metrics, Blue Collar is classified as a HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1978 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Blue Collar worth watching?
Blue Collar is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.3/10 and stands as a HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Blue Collar parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Blue Collar identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Blue Collar?
The total duration of Blue Collar is 114 minutes, which is approximately 1h 54m long.
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Critic Reviews for Blue Collar
A serious role for Pryor with a good cast and a message that should hit home for any ordinary working man. Well worth the watch.
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
