Brewster's Millions (1985)

"Brewster's Millions" is a rollicking American comedy directed by Walter Hill, released in 1985. Adapted from George Barr McCutcheon’s 1902 novel and penned by Herschel Weingrod and Timothy Harris, this high-concept farce stars Richard Pryor in a madcap race against a fortune’s quirky catch. The story follows Montgomery "Monty" Brewster (Pryor), a washed-up minor-league pitcher scraping by with his buddy Spike (John Candy). When a distant, eccentric uncle dies, Monty learns he’s in line for a $300 million inheritance—but only if he can fritter away $30 million in 30 days, with nothing tangible to show for it and no one clued in on the scheme. From lavish parties to disastrous investments—like backing a “None of the Above” mayoral campaign—Monty’s spending spree spirals into chaos, all while dodging suspicion from his lawyer (Stephen Collins) and love interest Angela (Lonette McKee). Famed for Pryor’s frenetic charisma, Candy’s sidekick hilarity, and a premise that milks every dollar for laughs, "Brewster's Millions" is a breezy ‘80s romp with a satirical edge on wealth. Hill’s brisk direction and a jazzy score by Ry Cooder keep the absurdity humming, though its dated gags show their age. Released in 1985, "Brewster's Millions" grossed over $45 million, cementing its status as a feel-good favorite. A zany twist on the American Dream, it’s a timeless chuckle at the lengths one man will go to lose it all—and win even more.