This is indeed an underwatched and underappreciated film. I am perpetually impressed with both Richard Pryor's and Yaphet Kotto's performances. Watching a likeable group of characters like this limp through their daily lives is very engaging. There's a great deal of comedy that makes the movie enjoyable too. From a half-ass robbery of a union office safe (their disguises are the best) to the Zeke's IRS confrontation, it's a sad story but one that pulls you in. Though I think I've heard that he has basically disowned this film, it is by far one of Schrader's best efforts.
Review of Blue Collar
