The Ritz 1976
"The funny season begins when you check in for a night at The Ritz."
Richard Lester's 1976 comedy crime caper, *The Ritz*, dives into a madcap chase when businessman Gaetano Proclo ducks into a New York City bathhouse to evade a pair of mobsters.
Director: Richard Lester
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Ritz (1976) about?
Gaetano Proclo, a businessman on the run from mobsters, accidentally hides in The Ritz, a lively gay bathhouse in New York. What follows is a whirlwind of mistaken identities, frantic disguises, and comedic chaos as Gaetano tries to escape his pursuers—and the bathhouse itself.
Who directed The Ritz?
The film was directed by Richard Lester, the British filmmaker behind several beloved comedies and musicals, including *A Hard Day's Night* and *The Beatles: Help!*.
Who stars in The Ritz?
The main cast includes Jack Weston, Rita Moreno, Jerry Stiller, Kaye Ballard, and F. Murray Abraham, who all bring their signature energy to this madcap comedy.
Is The Ritz (1976) worth watching?
While it doesn't have a rated IMDb score, *The Ritz* is a hidden gem for fans of classic comedies. Its sharp wit, lively pacing, and standout performances make it a fun watch, though purists might find the campier elements a bit dated.
How long is The Ritz?
The Ritz runs for 91 minutes, a perfect runtime for a fast-paced comedy with non-stop laughs.
🎥 Trailer
About The Ritz (1976) — Comedy Crime Classic with Jack Weston and Rita Moreno
Richard Lester's 1976 comedy crime caper, *The Ritz*, dives into a madcap chase when businessman Gaetano Proclo ducks into a New York City bathhouse to evade a pair of mobsters. What starts as a frantic escape quickly spirals into a hilarious farce as the frantic Gaetano realizes too late that the 'safe house' is actually the iconic gay bathhouse, The Ritz. Packed with slapstick humor, sharp wit, and a vibrant ensemble cast, Lester crafts a satirical romp that blends crime tropes with the chaotic energy of New York's underground nightlife. The film's brisk 91-minute runtime keeps the gags crisp, while its underlying themes of mistaken identity and social misfit humor give it unexpected depth beneath the laughs.
Starring Jack Weston as the flustered Gaetano and featuring standout performances from Rita Moreno and Jerry Stiller, *The Ritz* (1976) delivers a breezy yet unforgettable cinematic experience. The movie's infectious atmosphere, punctuated by witty dialogue and physical comedy, makes it a cult classic for fans of classic comedy crime films.