Night Shift (DVD, 1999)

This was one of Howard's early directorial efforts (he even gives himself a Hitchcockian-style cameo in an alley kiss near the beginning), and one of his straight-out funniest. Many have commented on Keaton's top-notch breakout performance -- and it truly is one of the funniest supporting performances since Matthau's Whiplash Willie Gingrich. But, there are many other wonderful tidbits to enjoy thoroughly -- beginning with an incredibly clever script by Ganz and Mandell -- so many classic lines I almost don't know where to begin. Gina Hecht is also magnificently memorable in her supporting role as Winkler's neurotic girlfriend, and Nita Talbot is a gem as the domineering mother. Winkler is perfect as the understated nebbish lead, and the contrast of the low-income realities and the humor found in the script is marvelously unusual in American movies beyond "Little Shop of Horrors". In fact, the movie deftly blends reality and absurdity in a manner few have succeeded at. Finally, the ahead-of-its-time cast includes Shannen Doherty as a junior girl scout, Richard Belzer as a grotesque gangster pimp, Kevin Costner as a frat boy, Clint Howard (Ron's younger brother who starred in Gentle Ben and a classic Star Trek episode) as Keaton's first limo customer, Murphy Brown's Pat Corley as Hecht's father, and Ghost's Vincent Schiavelli as an obnoxious deliveryman. And, I do disagree with mainstream thought that Shelley Long was miscast -- she actually imbues her character with some underappreciated mannerisms that ring very true for me that transcend the hooker-with-a-heart-of-gold cliche. All in all, a funny and harrowing film much better than it is generally given credit for.

"Night Shift" is one of those cult classic sleeper movies that stands up well under the test of time. It had a decent run at the theaters when it was released in 1982, and then was shown widely on cable in the mid 1980s. Today it is somewhat of a time capsule. It showcases Michael Keaton, who went on to become a successful and versatile actor and Henry Winkler, who showed he can do much more than "Fonzie." Shelley Long is also delightful in the movie, even if she seems a little too pretty and sweet to be a hooker.

The movie has many funny and quotable lines and sequences and it never, ever, ever takes itself seriously. It is a good movie to own because it can be watched over and over and still stays fresh. Had a tough and trying day? Just watch this movie: it will give you many good laughs.

I loved this movie.First,some wonderfully energetic acting and great chemistry between Henry Winkler, Shelly Longe and an amazing debut for Michael Keaton. The storyline was unique,and though i don't think it's likely to be an accurate account of the prostitution profession... the movie has a positive message and is likely to make you feel wonderful

I LOVE MICHAEL KEATON AND WATCH ALL OF HIS MOVIES. HE WAS GOOD IN THIS ONE. ALSO WITH HENRY WINKLER AND SHELLEY LONG WHO ARE VERY GOOD IN IT.

We saw this movie years ago and remembered it so I decided to find it. Watched it tonight and it's still as comical, with Henry Winkler/Michael Keaton/Shelly Long, the lines are really witty and funny. Overall good movie to watch for a few hearty laughs without the 'stupid', not so funny stuff, that's out there now. Enjoyed this one a lot.