Verdict:Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.
With a rating of 6.4/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy, Documentary, TV Movie genre.
Answer: Yes, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 48 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Last updated: January 11, 2026
Released in 1971, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin' is the first stand-up act of Richard Pryor to be filmed out of the four that were released in total. Under the direction of Michael Blum, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
The film is anchored by performances from Richard Pryor. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
From a technical standpoint, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Beyond the narrative, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
As of early 2026, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
The plot of Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin' is the first stand-up act of Richard Pryor to be filmed out of the four that were released in total. This film was filmed in 1971 but not released until 1985, on VHS. This was the first stand-up act that Pryor did before he hit the mainstream audience. With only 48 minutes of footage, it is the shortest of Pryor's stand-up routines. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1971 cinema will find fairly predictable.
The ending of Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final verdict for Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' (1971): with an audience rating of 6.4/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Documentary, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 6.4/10, and global collection metrics, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1971 cinematic year.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Documentary, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' has received mixed reviews with a 6.4/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Documentary, TV Movie movies, but read reviews first.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is a Comedy, Documentary, TV Movie movie that follows: Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin' is the first stand-up act of Richard Pryor to be filmed out of the four that were released in total. This film was filmed in 1971 but not released until 1985, on VHS....
Yes, Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Comedy, Documentary, TV Movie movie.
Richard Pryor: Live and Smokin' is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Richard Pryor: Live & Smokin' is the first stand-up act of Richard Pryor to be filmed out of the four that were released in total. This film was filmed in 1971 but not released until 1985, on VHS. This was the first stand-up act that Pryor did before he hit the mainstream audience. With only 48 minutes of footage, it is the shortest of Pryor's stand-up routines.
I'm a fan of Pryor's live work. However after seeing this I'm not so sure it should have ever been released. I suppose it shows that comedians can have an 'off' night and that was certainly the case. Maybe it was the camera's, maybe a small crowd to feed off. From what I guessed, I'm sure the crowd didn't know what was going on. Not really funny and it seems like a berate the audience show (probably like the national gay association gig). Personally it wouldn't have bothered me to skip it.
