Night Shift (1982): The Cult Comedy That Launched Michael Keaton’s Career
What happens when you mix Henry Winkler’s cool demeanor with Michael Keaton’s high-energy charm?
You get Night Shift—Ron Howard’s directorial debut and a true comedy classic.
Set in a New York City morgue, the film follows the unlikely duo of Chuck (Winkler), a mild-mannered night worker, and Bill (Keaton), his wildly ambitious new coworker.
Their venture into an unusual business turns their world upside down, leading to plenty of laughs.
Keaton’s breakthrough performance nearly stole the show, with Winkler’s support behind the scenes helping to shape the film’s success.
Meanwhile, Shelley Long, hesitant at first about playing a prostitute, delivered a performance so endearing that critics dubbed her “the happiest, most wholesome hooker on screen.”
Fans of the film may also notice a young Kevin Costner in a brief, blink-and-you-miss-it role!
And if you look closely, you’ll spot Ron Howard himself in two small cameos.
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One of the most amusing bloopers?
When Long’s character asks Chuck how he wants his eggs, he says scrambled—but moments later, she’s clearly making fried eggs!
From improvised scenes to casting secrets, Night Shift remains a must-watch for comedy fans.
