The Pickle (1993)

Paul Mazursky's sharp, semi-autobiographical comedy about a filmmaker who sells out — and pays the price in every relationship he's ever had.

The Pickle - Movie Information

  • Release Year: 1993
  • Directed by: Paul Mazursky
  • Type: Movie
  • Genres: Comedy, Drama, Romance, Thriller
  • Age Rating (US): R
  • Runtime: 1h 43m
  • Original Language: English
  • Spoken Languages: English
  • Release Date (Theatrical): April 30, 1993 (United States - R)
  • Production Companies: Columbia Pictures
  • Production Countries: United States of America

The Pickle - Plot

Harry Stone always dreamed of making "The Great American Movie." Instead, he made "The Pickle" - a teenage sci-fi flick about a flying cucumber. Harry just wanted to get out of debt; now everyone he's ever known, loved and neglected is standing in line for tickets.

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The Pickle - Cast & Crew

Director(s)

  • Paul Mazursky

Main Cast

  • Danny Aiello
  • Dyan Cannon
  • Clotilde Courau
  • Shelley Winters
  • Barry Miller
  • Jerry Stiller
  • Chris Penn
  • Little Richard
  • Rebecca Miller
  • Stephen Tobolowsky

Writers

  • Paul Mazursky

Producers

  • Paul Mazursky

The Pickle - FAQs

What is The Pickle about?

The Pickle follows Harry Stone, a once-respected filmmaker drowning in debt who reluctantly makes a ridiculous teenage sci-fi movie about a giant flying cucumber. When the film becomes a surprise hit, everyone from his past — family, lovers, and old friends — suddenly comes crawling back into his chaotic life.

Who are the main actors in The Pickle?

Danny Aiello leads the cast as Harry Stone, joined by Dyan Cannon as his ex-wife Ellen, Clotilde Courau as his young French girlfriend Françoise, and Shelley Winters as his mother Yetta. The ensemble also includes Jerry Stiller, Chris Penn, Little Richard, and Stephen Tobolowsky.

Is The Pickle based on a true story?

The Pickle is not based on a specific true story, but director Paul Mazursky drew heavily from his own experiences in Hollywood. The film is widely seen as a semi-autobiographical reflection on the pressures, compromises, and personal chaos that come with a long career in the film industry.

Who directed The Pickle?

The Pickle was directed by Paul Mazursky, the filmmaker behind celebrated comedies like Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice, An Unmarried Woman, and Moscow on the Hudson. He also wrote and produced the film, making it a deeply personal project that blends sharp wit with genuine emotional honesty.

Where can you stream or watch The Pickle?

You can watch The Pickle by renting or buying it on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It's widely available across major digital platforms, so finding a copy to watch at home is pretty straightforward.

What is the age rating for The Pickle?

The Pickle is rated R in the United States. The rating reflects the film's adult humor, mature themes, and some language, making it best suited for viewers aged 17 and older. It's a grown-up comedy-drama that deals honestly with mid-life crisis, relationships, and creative compromise.

What movies are similar to The Pickle?

If you enjoyed The Pickle, you might also like Marmalade (2024), Meet Cute (2022), Everybody Loves Jeanne (2022), and Ehrengard: The Art of Seduction (2023). These films share a similar blend of comedy, romance, and offbeat storytelling that fans of Paul Mazursky's style tend to appreciate.

How long is The Pickle?

The Pickle has a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes, making it a comfortably paced watch. It's long enough to develop its ensemble cast and layered story without overstaying its welcome — a solid afternoon or evening movie for fans of character-driven comedies.

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