04-19-2025 - on This Moment in Film History
Apr 19, 2025•2 min
Episode description
On April 19, 1995, the iconic movie "Friday" was released in the United States. Directed by F. Gary Gray and written by Ice Cube and DJ Pooh, the comedy film became a cultural phenomenon and launched the careers of several actors.
"Friday" starred Ice Cube as Craig Jones, a young man living in South Central Los Angeles who loses his job and spends a memorable day with his best friend, Smokey (played by Chris Tucker), as they try to figure out how to pay back a drug dealer. The movie was filmed in just 20 days with a budget of $3.5 million.
The film's success led to two sequels: "Next Friday" (2000) and "Friday After Next" (2002). It also inspired a short-lived animated series called "Friday: The Animated Series" in 2007.
"Friday" is known for its quotable lines, memorable characters, and comedic take on life in the hood. The movie also featured a number of notable actors in supporting roles, including Nia Long, Bernie Mac, John Witherspoon, and Regina King.
The film's soundtrack, which featured songs by various artists, including Dr. Dre, Cypress Hill, and Scarface, went double platinum and contributed to the movie's popularity.
"Friday" has since become a classic in the comedy genre and remains a fan favorite, often referenced in popular culture. The movie grossed over $28 million worldwide and continues to be celebrated for its humor, characters, and portrayal of life in the inner city.
"Friday" starred Ice Cube as Craig Jones, a young man living in South Central Los Angeles who loses his job and spends a memorable day with his best friend, Smokey (played by Chris Tucker), as they try to figure out how to pay back a drug dealer. The movie was filmed in just 20 days with a budget of $3.5 million.
The film's success led to two sequels: "Next Friday" (2000) and "Friday After Next" (2002). It also inspired a short-lived animated series called "Friday: The Animated Series" in 2007.
"Friday" is known for its quotable lines, memorable characters, and comedic take on life in the hood. The movie also featured a number of notable actors in supporting roles, including Nia Long, Bernie Mac, John Witherspoon, and Regina King.
The film's soundtrack, which featured songs by various artists, including Dr. Dre, Cypress Hill, and Scarface, went double platinum and contributed to the movie's popularity.
"Friday" has since become a classic in the comedy genre and remains a fan favorite, often referenced in popular culture. The movie grossed over $28 million worldwide and continues to be celebrated for its humor, characters, and portrayal of life in the inner city.
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