Another You marks the final on-screen pairing of the legendary comedic duo Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder. The film attempts to recapture their unique chemistry in a story of mistaken identity, mental health, and a scheme gone awry, blending slapstick humor with a touch of heart.
The story centers on George Putnam (Wilder), a pathological liar who has just been released from a mental institution. His assigned “sponsor” and caretaker is Eddie Dash (Pryor), a cynical con artist who sees an opportunity to exploit George’s condition for his own gain. Eddie’s plan is to use George’s innocent nature and his tendency to exaggerate or invent stories to help him with various scams.
However, their scheme takes an unexpected turn when George is mistaken for a wealthy, missing millionaire named Abe Fielding. The confusion arises because George bears a striking resemblance to Fielding, and his erratic behavior is misinterpreted as the eccentricities of a man who has been through a traumatic experience. This mistaken identity thrusts George and Eddie into a world of high society, danger, and unexpected complications.
They encounter a host of characters involved in the millionaire’s life, including the beautiful and suspicious Gloria (Mercedes Ruehl), who seems to have a vested interest in Abe Fielding’s return, and the determined detective Rupert Dibbs (Stephen Lang), who is investigating Fielding’s disappearance.
Vanessa Williams also appears in a supporting role as Gloria and Kevin Pollak has a small role as Phil.
As George unwittingly assumes the millionaire’s persona, Eddie finds himself increasingly out of his depth, trying to manage George’s unpredictable behavior while navigating the real threats posed by those who want to control Fielding’s fortune.
The duo must work together to uncover the truth about Abe Fielding and escape the perilous situation they’ve stumbled into.
Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder in Another You (Photo/TriStar Pictures)
The film is the fourth and final film featuring the popular duo, following Silver Streak (1976), Stir Crazy (1980) and See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989).
Reception for Another You
Another You grossed $1.5 million on its opening weekend, finishing No. 13 at the box office.
The film would gross $2.9 million in its theatrical run.
Legacy for Film Film with Pryor & Wilder
Another You is known primarily as the final film collaboration between Pryor and Wilder, a partnership that yielded several beloved comedies. While it didn’t achieve the critical or commercial success of their earlier hits like Silver Streak or Stir Crazy, it remains a notable entry in their combined filmography.
The film is remembered for the enduring comedic dynamic between Pryor and Wilder, even if the script didn’t always live up to their talents. For fans of the duo, it offers a nostalgic look at their unique blend of physical comedy and witty banter, serving as a bittersweet farewell to one of cinema’s most iconic comedic pairings.
