Sashenka Glidden

Written by Sashenka Glidden

Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

37-facts-about-the-movie-quick-change
Source: Moviemeter.com

Are you a fan of heist comedies? If so, then you must have heard about the classic film Quick Change. Directed by Howard Franklin and starring Bill Murray, this 1990 movie has become a cult favorite amongst comedy enthusiasts. Quick Change tells the story of a bank robber named Grimm, played by Bill Murray, who successfully pulls off a daring bank heist in the heart of New York City. However, what sets this film apart from other crime comedies is its unique twist – instead of focusing on the heist itself, Quick Change takes a hilarious and chaotic turn as Grimm and his accomplices struggle to escape the city’s chaotic web of traffic, bureaucracy, and eccentric characters. In this article, we will delve into 37 fascinating and little-known facts about the movie Quick Change, giving you an inside look at the making of this iconic and underrated comedy gem.

Key Takeaways:

  • “Quick Change” is a timeless comedy classic set in New York City, featuring a hilarious bank heist and a madcap escape. With its witty dialogue and relatable city life frustrations, it’s a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts.
  • Bill Murray’s directorial debut, “Quick Change,” blends comedy, crime, and adventure seamlessly. Its enduring popularity, quotable lines, and rewatch value make it a beloved cult classic for movie fans of all ages.
Table of Contents

The Inspiration

The movie Quick Change was inspired by a book of the same name, written by Jay Cronley. The story revolves around a bank robbery and the characters’ attempt to outsmart the police and make a daring escape.

Bill Murray’s Triple Role

In addition to playing the main character, Grimm, Bill Murray also co-directed Quick Change alongside Howard Franklin. Murray’s performance in the film is a testament to his comedic genius and improvisational skills.

New York City Setting

The movie is set in the bustling and chaotic city of New York. The cityscape serves as the perfect backdrop for the characters’ madcap adventures as they navigate the urban jungle.

Geena Davis’ Performance

Geena Davis plays Phyllis, Grimm’s resourceful and quick-thinking girlfriend. Her portrayal of a woman caught up in the chaos of the heist adds depth to the story and provides some memorable moments of comedic relief.

Randy Quaid’s Unforgettable Character

Randy Quaid delivers a stellar performance as Loomis, the eccentric and somewhat dim-witted partner-in-crime. Quaid’s comedic timing and physical comedy skills shine throughout the movie.

The Perfect Bank Heist

Grimm, Phyllis, and Loomis plan the perfect bank heist, but things quickly spiral out of control. The comedy arises from their hilarious attempts to maintain control of the situation while everything seems to go wrong.

Diverse Supporting Cast

The movie features a talented ensemble cast, including Jason Robards, Tony Shalhoub, Phil Hartman, and Stanley Tucci. Each actor brings their unique comedic flair to the film, adding to its overall entertainment value.

The Relatable Frustration of City Life

Quick Change captures the frustration and absurdity of living in a bustling city. From crowded subways to endless traffic jams, the film’s portrayal of urban life strikes a chord with audiences.

The Chase Begins

After successfully robbing the bank, Grimm, Phyllis, and Loomis find themselves pursued by an assortment of quirky characters, including both law enforcement and everyday New Yorkers. The resulting chase scenes are filled with humor and excitement.

New York City Landmarks

The movie showcases various iconic landmarks in New York City, such as Times Square, Grand Central Station, and Central Park. These locations add authenticity to the film and immerse the audience in the chaotic world of the characters.

The Wacky Disguises

In an effort to evade capture, the characters don a series of disguises throughout the film. From dressed as clowns to impersonating ambulance drivers, their disguises add an extra layer of comedy to the story.

The Subway Scene

One of the most memorable scenes in the movie involves Grimm getting trapped in a subway car. The scene perfectly captures the frustration and claustrophobia that many New Yorkers experience on a daily basis.

Hilarious Dialogue

The film is known for its sharp and witty dialogue. The comedic banter between the characters adds to the overall enjoyment of the movie and showcases the talent of the screenplay writers.

The Challenges of Filming in New York City

Shooting a movie in New York City comes with its own set of challenges. The filmmakers had to navigate permits, traffic, and unpredictable weather, but their efforts paid off, as the city becomes an integral part of the film’s charm.

The Mysterious Clown

In one of the movie’s most memorable scenes, Grimm disguises himself as a clown while in the subway station. This scene perfectly encapsulates the chaos and absurdity of the characters’ predicaments.

The Comedy of Errors

Quick Change is filled with comedic mishaps and unexpected plot twists. The characters’ attempts to execute their escape plan are constantly thwarted, leading to hilarious and unpredictable outcomes.

The Music Selection

The film’s soundtrack features an eclectic mix of songs that capture the spirit of New York City. From jazz to classic rock, the music adds another layer of energy and authenticity to the film.

Positive Critical Reception

Quick Change received positive reviews from critics upon its release. Its clever blend of comedy and action, coupled with the impressive performances of the cast, garnered praise from both audiences and reviewers alike.

The Screenplay Adaptation

The screenplay for the movie was written by Howard Franklin, who also co-directed the film with Bill Murray. Franklin’s adaptation successfully translates the humor and wit of the original book to the big screen.

Quotable Lines

The film is filled with memorable and quotable lines that have become ingrained in popular culture. From clever one-liners to comedic exchanges, these lines have solidified Quick Change as a fan favorite.

The Escalating Madcap Pace

The movie’s pacing is relentless, taking the audience on a rollercoaster ride of comedic chaos. From one predicament to another, the story never slows down, ensuring that viewers are continually entertained.

The Importance of Timing

Timing is crucial in comedy, and Quick Change excels in this aspect. The impeccable comedic timing of the actors, combined with the sharp editing, enhances the humor and adds to the film’s overall comedic impact.

The Unexpected Twist

The movie surprises viewers with an unexpected twist toward the end. This twist adds another layer of complexity to the story and keeps audiences engaged until the very last scene.

The Heist Hilarity Continues

Even after the bank heist is over, the comedy doesn’t stop. The characters’ attempts to escape the city become even more absurd and farcical, providing endless laughter for the audience.

A Unique Blend of Genres

Quick Change seamlessly blends elements of comedy, crime, and adventure, creating a truly unique film experience. This combination of genres contributes to the movie’s appeal and broadens its audience reach.

The Film’s Legacy

Over the years, Quick Change has gained a dedicated following and is widely regarded as a comedic classic. Its influence can be seen in subsequent heist comedies, and it continues to be celebrated for its comedic brilliance.

Critics’ Choice Award Nomination

The film received a nomination for the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Comedy Film. This recognition further solidifies its status as a highly regarded comedy in the industry.

The Directorial Debut

Co-directing Quick Change marked Bill Murray’s directorial debut. His collaboration with Howard Franklin resulted in a well-executed movie that showcases Murray’s talent both in front of and behind the camera.

The Bank Robbery Genre

Quick Change offers a fresh take on the bank robbery genre by infusing it with comedy. The film adds a lighthearted twist to the typically serious and suspenseful nature of heist movies.

The Enduring Popularity

Despite being released over three decades ago, Quick Change continues to attract new audiences. Its timeless humor and relatable themes have made it a go-to comedy for movie enthusiasts.

The Subway Tunnel Scene

One of the most memorable moments in the film occurs when the characters find themselves in a seemingly endless maze of subway tunnels. This scene showcases the characters’ determination to escape while providing ample comedic moments.

The Commentary on City Life

Beyond its comedic brilliance, Quick Change also offers a satirical commentary on the challenges of city living. The movie pokes fun at the everyday frustrations of urban dwellers, making it relatable to a wide audience.

The Prohibition-Era Bank

The bank featured in the film is modeled after the ornate and lavish banks of the Prohibition era. The contrast between the grandeur of the bank and the chaos that ensues adds to the film’s comedic impact.

The Cult Following

Over time, Quick Change has acquired a cult following who appreciate its comedic brilliance. Fans of the film quote lines, exchange trivia, and organize screenings, keeping the movie alive in popular culture.

The Subtle Social Commentary

Beneath the comedy, Quick Change subtly addresses societal issues such as bureaucracy, surveillance, and the struggle to survive in an increasingly maddening world. These layers of social commentary enhance the film’s depth.

The Air of Nostalgia

Quick Change evokes a sense of nostalgia for the New York City of the 1990s. It serves as a time capsule, allowing viewers to reminisce about a bygone era while enjoying the timeless humor of the film.

The Endless Rewatch Value

One of the greatest strengths of Quick Change is its rewatch value. The film’s comedic brilliance and well-crafted storytelling make it enjoyable with each viewing, ensuring that audiences will continue to revisit it for years to come.

So there you have it – the 37 fascinating facts about the movie Quick Change. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or discovering it for the first time, this comedy classic is sure to entertain, delight, and leave you wanting more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Quick Change is a highly underrated comedy film that deserves more recognition. With its brilliant acting performances, sharp wit, and unique blend of humor and thrills, it keeps audiences entertained from start to finish. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or simply looking for a fun and fast-paced movie to watch, Quick Change is definitely worth checking out. Don’t let its relatively low profile fool you—this film is a hidden gem that will have you laughing out loud and on the edge of your seat. So grab some popcorn, gather your friends or family, and get ready for a wild ride with Quick Change!

FAQs

1. When was Quick Change released?

Quick Change was released on July 13, 1990.

2. Who directed Quick Change?

Quick Change was directed by Howard Franklin and Bill Murray.

3. Is Quick Change based on a book?

Yes, Quick Change is based on a book of the same name written by Jay Cronley.

4. Who are the main actors in Quick Change?

The main actors in Quick Change are Bill Murray, Geena Davis, and Randy Quaid.

5. What is the genre of Quick Change?

Quick Change is a comedy film, with elements of crime and heist.

6. Is Quick Change a remake?

No, Quick Change is not a remake. It is an original film based on the book by Jay Cronley.

7. Where was Quick Change filmed?

Quick Change was primarily filmed in New York City.

8. Did Quick Change receive any awards?

No, Quick Change did not receive any major awards, but it has gained a cult following over the years.

9. What is the runtime of Quick Change?

The runtime of Quick Change is approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes.

10. Is Quick Change suitable for all audiences?

Quick Change is rated R for language and some violence, so it is recommended for mature audiences.

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