The spirit of the 1976 classic film Car Wash is being reimagined for the small screen as NBC develops a new series with a modern twist. Malcolm D. Lee, the creative mind behind The Best Man, is producing the project, which is still in the early stages of development.
Bringing a classic to contemporary times
Set in the vibrant landscape of modern-day Washington D.C., the series will center around an immigrant family running a car wash. It will delve into the dynamic generational and cultural conflicts that arise between the father, his son, and their diverse staff.
A blend of new and nostalgic talent
The show is penned by Opey Olagbaju, known for his work on “Bob Hearts Abishola.” While casting details remain under wraps, there’s potential for cameos from the original film’s cast, including Garrett Morris, Bill Duke, Pepe Serna, and Franklyn Ajaye, adding a layer of nostalgia for fans of the original movie.
Legacy of the original car wash
Directed by Michael Schultz and written by Joel Schumacher, the original Car Wash was a comedic treasure featuring stars like Richard Pryor and George Carlin. It portrayed the lives and aspirations of Los Angeles car wash employees over a single day, becoming a cultural touchstone of its era.
As NBC breathes new life into this beloved story, audiences old and new can look forward to a fresh take on the themes of ambition, dreams, and the American experience, all set against the backdrop of a family-owned car wash.