Skip to content

CRITERIAA Criterion Channel Companion

Home Search Collections Closet Lists

CRITERIA

A Criterion Channel Companion

© 2026 Criteria. Not affiliated with The Criterion Collection.

Personal Problems (1980) | Criteria

Backdrop for Personal Problems

Poster for Personal Problems

Personal Problems

English • 1980 • 2h 45m

This film is not currently available on the Criterion Channel

Director

Synopsis

An “experimental soap opera” centered on a Harlem nurse, her husband, her father-in-law, and her lover.

Included in
Additions: August 2020
Position 54
Included in
Three by Bill Gunn
Position 3

Credits

Crew

DirectorBill Gunn

WriterIshmael Reed

CinematographerRoberto Polidori

ComposerCarman Moore

EditorBill Gunn, Roberto Polidori, Kip Hanrahan, Niamani Mutima, Walter Cotton

ProducerWalter Cotton

Cast

Vertamae Grosvenoras Johnnie Mae Brown

as Charles Brown

Bill Gunnas Mr. Damien

Ishmael Reedas Manager of Doggie Diner

Jim Wrightas Father Brown

Margo Williamsas Della

Sam Waymonas Raymon

Thommie Blackwellas Bubba

Michele Wallaceas Sharon

John H. Wellsas Numbers Man

Miamani Mutimaas Woman in Café

Carey Barnesas Patient's Uncle

Tres/Marshall M. Johnson, IIIas Aikijutso Waiter

Michael Wattsas Patient

Lester Williamsas Patient's Brother

Dr. Alan Becklesas Doctor

Dr. William Grantas Doctor

Kip Hanrahanas White radical in bar

Kenny de Loucheas Musician in bar

Vincent Hallas Musician in bar