Today we are taking a trip back to 1981 with an absolute Richard Pryor classic, I would say that Bustin’ Loose is second only to See No Evil, Hear No Evil when it comes to Richard Pryor movies. This movie is freaking hilarious, but it also has a lot of heart too and a rather nice message, among all of the Richard Pryor profanity of course.
How to Download Bustin’ Loose
Bustin’ Loose was released on May 22, 1981. You can download or stream the film from a digital platform. Click on the Where to Watch & Stream button below and make your choice.
The Movie Review
Richard Pryor (Stir Crazy, Superman III) plays the role of a guy called Joe Braxton. Joe is a convict and he has found himself in trouble after violating his parole. The thing is, Joe is a bit of a sweet talker, this is Richard Pryor after all, so Joe manages to convince the judge to give him a second chance. Rather than throwing him back in jail, Joe gets to go back on parole and try to make something of his life.
A Road Trip with a Purpose
However, Donald who is his parole officer asks Joe to help a young woman called Vivian out. Vivian is a school teacher and the school she works at has been closed down, meaning a handful of kids with various special and emotional needs, need a place to go. Vivian’s aunt has a farm in Washington where the kids can go and get another chance at life.
The kids in the movie are awesome and each one has something about them that makes them special. Anyway, while the farm is in Washington, the kids are in Philadelphia so they have a long way ahead of them. Thankfully, there is a school bus and Donald arranges for Joe to “fix” the bus. However. Joe has other ideas.
The Journey and Life Lessons
Joe eventually agrees to drive. Joe, Vivian, and the kids head out on a very long and wild road trip from the East Coast all the way to the West Coast. While Joe is there to drive the bus and make sure it keeps on running. Joe discovers that he has a real knack for talking to these kids and helping them with their problems. Well, getting to Washington was only half the battle as there was an issue with the mortgage on the farm and they need to raise 15 grand so the kids have a place to stay.
Why Bustin’ Loose is a Must-Watch
There are some great laughs here, mostly Richard Pryor and his fast talking profanity filled rants. However, you also have the stuff with the kids and the more emotional aspect of the movie as well. I have seen this movie a few times and it always manages to make me smile, laugh, and feel good by the end of it. Sure, it is a bit on the predictable side, but I would not have it any other way.
Bustin’ Loose Blu-Ray Quality & Final Thoughts
Bustin’ Loose is one of those movies that I was disappointed with when I upgraded it from DVD to Blu-Ray. Sure, the Blu-Ray looks better than the DVD, but this could do with a transfer that was handled with a bit more TLC. The special features are also pretty lacking on that Blu-Ray release. Still, with that being said, Bustin’ Loose is a lot of fun and a real classic from the early 80s that I highly recommend you check out.
Fans of memorable cinema can also read our in-depth reviews and watch guides for Titanic, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Want more high-scoring movie night ideas? Open the MadDownload 2-Tap Movie Picker to discover our highest-rated movies by mood or hit Surprise Me for an instant pick.
Readers interested in more standout titles in this category can also read our full guide to Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch Bustin’ Loose online?
You can check official streaming, digital rental, and video-on-demand platforms for Bustin’ Loose using the watch options on this page.
Is Bustin’ Loose available for digital download?
Yes, major digital storefronts and official streaming apps allow offline viewing or digital purchase of Bustin’ Loose on supported devices.
What makes Bustin’ Loose worth watching?
Bustin’ Loose stands out for its engaging pacing, strong performances, and memorable visual direction.
Does Bustin’ Loose include subtitles and HD playback?
Official digital releases of Bustin’ Loose support Full HD or 4K playback along with multi-language audio and subtitle tracks.
