Is Doctor Detroit Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Doctor Detroit is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.
It features a runtime of 89 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Doctor Detroit Review
Last updated: January 18, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 1983, Doctor Detroit emerges as a significant entry in the Comedy domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of A shy but gentle man named Clifford Skridlow is a professor of comparative literature at the financially-strapped fictional Monroe College in Chicago. Unlike standard genre fare, Doctor Detroit attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Comedy is often anchored by its ensemble, and Doctor Detroit features a noteworthy lineup led by Dan Aykroyd . Supported by the likes of Howard Hesseman and Donna Dixon , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Doctor Detroit (1983) is mixed. With an audience rating of 5.0/10, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Doctor Detroit Plot Summary & Detailed Storyline
Quick Plot Summary: Doctor Detroit is a Comedy film that brings laughter through clever writing and comedic timing, offering both entertainment and social commentary. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict and narrative structure.
Doctor Detroit Ending Explained & Final Analysis
Ending Breakdown: Doctor Detroit attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to comedy resolution.
The conclusion addresses the core thematic questions, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the comedy themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Doctor Detroit reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Doctor Detroit?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Comedy films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Doctor Detroit Box Office Collection
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $8.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $10.4M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Doctor Detroit Budget
The estimated production budget for Doctor Detroit is $8.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
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Full Cast & Crew of Doctor Detroit
- Dan Aykroyd – Clifford Skridlow / Doctor Detroit
- Howard Hesseman – Smooth Walker
- Donna Dixon – Monica McNeil
- Lydia Lei – Jasmine Wu
- T.K. Carter – Diavolo Washington
Top Highlights
Dan AykroydClifford Skridlow / Doctor Detroit
Howard HessemanSmooth Walker
Donna DixonMonica McNeil
Lydia LeiJasmine Wu
T.K. CarterDiavolo Washington
Lynn WhitfieldThelma Cleland
Fran DrescherKaren Blittstein
Kate MurtaghMom
Nan MartinMargaret Skridlow
George FurthArthur Skridlow
Where to Watch Doctor Detroit Online?
Streaming Hub🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TVGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeParents Guide & Age Rating
Doctor Detroit is rated R. It is intended for mature audiences only.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5/10, and global collection metrics, Doctor Detroit stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1983 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Doctor Detroit movie hit or flop?
Doctor Detroit has received mixed reviews with a 5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Doctor Detroit worth watching?
Doctor Detroit is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Doctor Detroit online?
Doctor Detroit may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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movieMx Verified
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
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