Comedy
United States of America
Problem Child is a 1990 comedy film directed by Dennis Dugan. The film stars John Ritter, Amy Yasbeck, Michael Oliver, Gilbert Gottfried, and Jack Warden. The film centers around the Healy family's adoption of a seven-year-old boy named Junior. Junior is a notorious troublemaker who has been returned from orphanage after orphanage for his bad behavior.
The film follows the Healy family as they try to adjust to their new life with Junior. Junior's behavior quickly becomes out of control as he torments his adoptive parents, destroys their house, and even ruins a camping trip. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Junior's bad behavior is a result of his longing for a loving family.
The film's humor is largely derived from Junior's outrageous behavior and the frustration of the Healy family. Gilbert Gottfried is particularly memorable in his role as Mr. Peabody, Junior's music teacher who becomes a victim of his destructive behavior.
Despite negative reviews from critics, the film was a commercial success and spawned two sequels, Problem Child 2 and Problem Child 3: Junior in Love. However, the film's portrayal of children with behavioral issues has been criticized for perpetuating negative stereotypes.
