Dirty Work: A Cult Classic Perfect for Pizza Night

May 20
15:06

2024

Andrew Stratton

Andrew Stratton

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Released in 1998, "Dirty Work" has evolved from a box office flop to a beloved cult classic, especially among fans of dark humor and its star-studded cast. Directed by Bob Saget, the film features Norm Macdonald and Artie Lange in a buddy comedy that has since garnered a dedicated following. With a plot that kicks off with a pizza delivery job gone wrong, "Dirty Work" is a perfect movie to enjoy with a slice of your favorite pie.

The Plot: A Comedy of Errors

"Dirty Work" begins with Mitch (Norm Macdonald) getting fired from his pizza delivery job within the first few minutes. This sets the tone for a series of misadventures that follow. Mitch's life spirals further into chaos when he is dumped by his girlfriend and is forced to move in with his best friend,Dirty Work: A Cult Classic Perfect for Pizza Night Articles Sam (Artie Lange), who shares a love for pizza. Sam's father, who has been a father figure to Mitch as well, needs a heart transplant, prompting the duo to start a "dirty work for hire" business. Their enterprise involves playing devious pranks on people seeking revenge but wanting to maintain plausible deniability.

Star-Studded Cast and Cameos

Directed by Bob Saget, known for his roles in "Full House" and "America's Funniest Home Videos," the film features a host of comedy legends. Chevy Chase, Don Rickles, and Chris Farley make memorable appearances. Farley's character, Jimmy, is particularly notable for his missing nose, a result of an encounter with a "Saigon whore." Jimmy's antics, including using live skunks and prostitutes, play a crucial role in the film's climax.

Box Office and Cult Status

Despite its $13 million budget, "Dirty Work" grossed just over $10 million, initially marking it as a commercial failure. However, the film has since gained a cult following. Artie Lange's fanbase, particularly from his time on the Howard Stern Show, often cites "Dirty Work" as a favorite. Norm Macdonald has also expressed his fondness for the film, especially his experience working with Don Rickles.

Interesting Stats

  • Rotten Tomatoes Ratings: While critics gave "Dirty Work" a dismal 17% rating, it holds a 65% approval rating from viewers, highlighting its cult status (Rotten Tomatoes).
  • Box Office: The film grossed $10 million against a $13 million budget (Box Office Mojo).
  • Director's Background: Bob Saget, known for his wholesome roles, directed this dark comedy, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry (IMDb).

Behind the Scenes

The screenplay was penned by Frank Sebastiano, Fred Wolf, and Norm Macdonald. Produced by Robert Simonds, who has a knack for cult classics like "Billy Madison" and "Happy Gilmore," the film's production team had a strong comedy pedigree. Despite its initial poor reception, the film's unique humor and memorable performances have cemented its place in the annals of cult cinema.

Conclusion

"Dirty Work" may not have been a box office hit, but its legacy as a cult classic is undeniable. With its dark humor, star-studded cast, and memorable pranks, it's a perfect movie for a pizza night with friends. Whether you're a fan of Norm Macdonald, Artie Lange, or just love a good comedy, "Dirty Work" is worth a watch.

For more on the film's cult status and its impact, check out Rotten Tomatoes and Box Office Mojo.