Written by Kara-Lynn Hoskins
Modified & Updated: 02 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
The Blues Brothers is a classic musical comedy film that has captivated audiences since its release in 1980. Directed by John Landis, this cult classic follows the hilarious and adventurous journey of Jake and Elwood Blues, played by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, as they reunite their band to save an orphanage from foreclosure.
Featuring an all-star cast, incredible musical performances, and a unique blend of comedy and action, The Blues Brothers has become a beloved film that continues to entertain audiences of all ages. In this article, we will explore 30 fascinating facts about this iconic movie, from its origins and behind-the-scenes stories to the impact it has had on popular culture.
Key Takeaways:
- The Blues Brothers is a classic movie with awesome music and crazy car chases. It inspired a whole band and even a sequel! It’s a must-watch for music and comedy fans.
- The movie’s impact goes beyond the screen, influencing fashion, music, and popular culture. It’s a fun mix of comedy, action, and amazing musical performances that will leave you entertained and inspired.
Fact #1
The Blues Brothers is a 1980 American musical comedy film directed by John Landis.
Fact #2
The film stars John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as “Joliet” Jake and Elwood Blues, the Blues Brothers.
Fact #3
The movie was inspired by the Blues Brothers musical sketch on the television show Saturday Night Live.
Fact #4
The Blues Brothers has a cult following and is considered a classic among comedy and music enthusiasts.
Fact #5
The film features performances by legendary musicians such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles.
Fact #6
John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd performed their own stunts in the movie, including car chases and high jumps.
Fact #7
The Blues Brothers features over 20 musical numbers, showcasing various genres including blues, soul, and R&B.
Fact #8
The film’s budget exceeded $27 million, making it one of the most expensive comedies ever made at the time.
Fact #9
Despite mixed reviews upon release, The Blues Brothers grossed over $115 million worldwide.
Fact #10
The iconic black suits worn by the Blues Brothers became their trademark image and have been imitated by many fans.
Fact #11
The car used by the Blues Brothers in the film is a 1974 Dodge Monaco named “The Bluesmobile.
Fact #12
The movie features several car chase scenes that have become legendary in the world of cinema.
Fact #13
The production of the film faced numerous challenges, including John Belushi’s struggles with substance abuse.
Fact #14
The Blues Brothers soundtrack became a huge success, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart.
Fact #15
The film’s catchphrase, “We’re on a mission from God,” has become iconic and is often quoted by fans.
Fact #16
The Blues Brothers features a cameo appearance by Steven Spielberg as the clerk of a Cook County Assessor’s office.
Fact #17
The movie’s opening scene showcases the iconic Chicago skyline and sets the tone for the rest of the film.
Fact #18
The Blues Brothers has inspired several tribute acts and live performances dedicated to the music of the Blues Brothers.
Fact #19
The film incorporates elements of comedy, action, and musical performances, creating a unique and entertaining experience.
Fact #20
The Blues Brothers has had a significant impact on popular culture, influencing subsequent films, music, and fashion.
Fact #21
John Landis, the director of the film, makes a cameo appearance as a state trooper.
Fact #22
The Blues Brothers spawned a sequel, Blues Brothers 2000, released in 1998.
Fact #23
The film’s final car chase scene involves over 100 cars and was one of the largest car chases ever filmed at the time.
Fact #24
The Blues Brothers received four Academy Award nominations, including Best Film Editing.
Fact #25
The film’s success led to the formation of a live band, The Blues Brothers Band, featuring Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi.
Fact #26
Over 103 acts auditioned for the role of the band performing at the Palace Hotel Ballroom.
Fact #27
The Blues Brothers has been praised for its energetic performances, humor, and memorable musical numbers.
Fact #28
The film pays homage to classic blues and soul music, featuring covers of songs by famous artists.
Fact #29
The Blues Brothers has been deemed a “culturally, historically, and aesthetically significant” film by the Library of Congress.
Fact #30
The movie’s success led to a resurgence of interest in the blues genre and influenced a new generation of musicians.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Blues Brothers is a timeless classic that combines music, comedy, and action into a truly unique cinematic experience. With its unforgettable performances, iconic soundtrack, and hilarious moments, the movie continues to captivate audiences even after four decades. The chemistry between John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd is electric, and their comedic timing is unparalleled. The Blues Brothers showcases the power of music to bring people together, and the importance of following your passion, no matter the obstacles. Whether you’re a fan of blues music, comedy, or simply love a good adventure, The Blues Brothers is a must-watch film that will leave you singing and laughing long after the credits roll.
FAQs
1. Who directed The Blues Brothers?
The Blues Brothers was directed by John Landis.
2. When was The Blues Brothers released?
The movie was released on June 20, 1980.
3. Who are the main actors in The Blues Brothers?
The main actors in The Blues Brothers are John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.
4. Is the music in The Blues Brothers original?
The soundtrack of The Blues Brothers features a mix of original songs and covers of classic blues and soul tracks.
5. Are the car chases in the movie real?
Yes, the car chases in The Blues Brothers are real and are considered some of the most thrilling scenes in the film.
6. What is the plot of The Blues Brothers?
The Blues Brothers follows Jake and Elwood Blues as they try to save the Catholic orphanage where they were raised by reuniting their old band and raising money through a series of performances.
7. How did The Blues Brothers perform at the box office?
Although The Blues Brothers initially received mixed reviews, it became a box office success and has since gained a cult following.
8. Does The Blues Brothers have any notable cameos?
Yes, The Blues Brothers is known for its numerous cameos, including appearances by musicians such as James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles, among others.
9. Is The Blues Brothers a comedy or a musical?
The Blues Brothers is a unique blend of comedy, music, and action, making it difficult to categorize it into one specific genre.
10. Can you recommend any other movies similar to The Blues Brothers?
If you enjoyed The Blues Brothers, you might also like movies such as “Animal House” (1978), “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” (1986), and “Ghostbusters” (1984), which feature similar comedic and musical elements.
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