The Jerk

Name: The Jerk
Released: 1979-12-14T00:00:00-05:00

R 1979 Comedy · 1h 34m

After discovering he's not really black like the rest of his family, likable dimwit Navin Johnson sets off on a hilarious misadventure that takes him from rags to riches and back again. The slaphappy jerk strikes it rich, but life in the fast lane isn't all it's cracked up to be and, in the end, all that really matters to Johnson is his true love.

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About The Jerk

Navin Johnson, a lovable simpleton, embarks on a life-altering journey after discovering he is not biologically related to his African American family. This revelation propels him into a series of comical misadventures, taking him from poverty to unimaginable wealth and eventually back to square one. Along the way, he invents gadgets, faces absurd lawsuits, and finds true love with the enchanting Marie. Though he achieves great success, Navin soon learns that material possessions are fleeting, and true happiness lies in genuine connection and love. Ultimately, The Jerk is a heartwarming tale about finding yourself and discovering what truly matters in life, all wrapped in a package of unparalleled comedic genius.

Movie Trailer

The Jerk Trailer

Cast and Characters

Directed by the masterful Carl Reiner, The Jerk features a stellar cast, led by Steve Martin as the endearingly clueless Navin Johnson. Bernadette Peters shines as Marie, Navin's captivating love interest. Catlin Adams delivers a memorable performance as Bernadette, adding to the film's comedic tapestry. Mabel King portrays Navin's adoptive mother, bringing warmth and humor to the role. Richard Ward appears as Father Carlos, while Carl Gottlieb contributes to the film's comedic brilliance. This ensemble cast elevates The Jerk to a comedic masterpiece.

What people like about The Jerk

Audiences and critics alike have praised The Jerk for its unadulterated comedic brilliance and Steve Martin's iconic performance. Many highlight the film's clever writing, its unapologetic absurdity, and its ability to evoke genuine laughter. Reviewers often mention the film's enduring appeal, noting that its humor remains fresh and relevant even decades after its release. The Jerk is celebrated as a landmark achievement in comedy, a testament to the power of laughter, and a timeless classic that continues to entertain and delight audiences worldwide.

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Movie Score

69%

Released

December 14, 1979

Director

Carl Reiner

Film Series

The Jerk Movies

Cast

Steve Martin, Bernadette Peters, Catlin Adams, Mabel King, Richard Ward, Carl Gottlieb

Genre

Comedy

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