Shaina Sousa

Written by Shaina Sousa

Modified & Updated: 05 Mar 2024

Jessica Corbett

Reviewed by Jessica Corbett

41-facts-about-the-movie-johnny-dangerously
Source: Watch.plex.tv

Are you ready to dive into the world of one of the most iconic comedy movies of the 1980s? Well, get ready to meet Johnny Dangerously! Released in 1984, this hilarious film directed by Amy Heckerling takes us on a wild ride through the criminal underworld of 1930s New York City. Starring Michael Keaton in the titular role, Johnny Dangerously is a comedy gem that has entertained audiences for decades with its clever dialogue, memorable characters, and laugh-out-loud moments. So, get your fedora hats ready and hold on tight as we uncover 41 fascinating facts about the movie Johnny Dangerously!

Key Takeaways:

  • Johnny Dangerously is a timeless comedy that parodies gangster films, featuring memorable catchphrases, a phenomenal cast, and a perfect blend of humor and action.
  • The movie’s enduring legacy lies in its nostalgic charm, enduring catchphrases, and influence on future comedies, making it a must-watch for fans of 80s cinema and mobster comedies.
Table of Contents

The release date of Johnny Dangerously

Johnny Dangerously hit the theaters on December 21, 1984, bringing its perfect blend of humor and action to the big screen.

The comedic talents of Michael Keaton

Michael Keaton, renowned for his versatility and comedic timing, took on the lead role of Johnny Kelly, also known as Johnny Dangerously.

Parodies the gangster film genre

Johnny Dangerously lovingly parodies the classic gangster films of the 1930s, with humorous nods to iconic characters and memorable scenes.

James Darren’s memorable performance

James Darren, known for his role in the popular television series “The Time Tunnel,” plays the charming and lovable character, Roman Moronie.

The phenomenal cast

Alongside Michael Keaton and James Darren, Johnny Dangerously boasts an ensemble cast including Joe Piscopo, Marilu Henner, Maureen Stapleton, and Danny DeVito.

Directed by Amy Heckerling

Amy Heckerling, the talented director behind such movies as “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Clueless,” helmed Johnny Dangerously, showcasing her ability to blend comedy and storytelling.

A joyful blend of comedy and action

Johnny Dangerously strikes the perfect balance between comedy and action, making it an enjoyable experience for fans of both genres.

The memorable one-liners

This film is packed with unforgettable one-liners and comedic moments that have become classics in their own right, delivering endless quotable lines.

The witty script

The script of Johnny Dangerously, written by Harry Colomby and Jeff Harris, is a testament to their sharp wit and clever humor.

The iconic catchphrases

From “You shouldn’t hang me on a hook, Johnny” to “Fargin iceholes,” Johnny Dangerously introduced audiences to an array of memorable catchphrases that have stood the test of time.

The popularity of the movie soundtrack

The movie’s soundtrack, featuring songs from the 1930s era, resonated with audiences and added an extra layer of authenticity to the film.

The influence of classic Hollywood

Johnny Dangerously pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood, with references to iconic films and stars of the era.

The charm of the prohibition era

The film takes place during the Prohibition era, capturing the glamour and intrigue of the time with a comedic twist.

The memorable supporting characters

From Lil, played by Marilu Henner, to Jocko Dundee, played by Peter Boyle, Johnny Dangerously features a cast of vibrant and memorable supporting characters.

The comedic chemistry between the actors

The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, creating hilarious and memorable on-screen moments that elevate the overall comedic experience.

The film’s cult following

Over the years, Johnny Dangerously has garnered a dedicated cult following, with fans appreciating its timeless humor and memorable characters.

The importance of family bonds

The film explores the theme of family loyalty, showcasing the strong bonds and comedic dynamics within the Kelly family.

The enduring appeal of mobster movies

Johnny Dangerously taps into our fascination with mobster movies, offering a comedic take on the genre that never fails to entertain.

The creative use of period costumes

The costume design in Johnny Dangerously flawlessly captures the fashion trends of the 1930s, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the film.

The charming romantic subplot

Amidst the comedy and action, Johnny Dangerously weaves a tender romantic subplot, showcasing the power of love in unexpected places.

The film’s enduring legacy

Despite being released over three decades ago, Johnny Dangerously continues to be celebrated for its humor, inventive storytelling, and beloved characters.

The memorable courtroom scene

The courtroom scene in Johnny Dangerously is a standout moment, filled with hilarity and unexpected twists that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

The film’s unique blend of slapstick and wordplay

Johnny Dangerously seamlessly blends physical comedy with clever wordplay, creating a comedic experience that caters to all types of humor.

The nostalgia factor

For fans of classic Hollywood and vintage comedy, Johnny Dangerously offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, evoking a sense of joy and familiarity.

The inspiration behind the characters

Many of the characters in Johnny Dangerously draw inspiration from real-life gangsters and comedic icons, adding a layer of authenticity and homage to the film.

The memorable car chase scenes

Johnny Dangerously features exhilarating car chase sequences that perfectly capture the fast-paced action of the era, while injecting them with comedy and unexpected twists.

The clever use of puns

Puns are a staple of Johnny Dangerously’s humor, with the film embracing wordplay to deliver laughs and cleverly crafted jokes.

The comedic timing of the actors

The comedic timing of the cast members is impeccable, expertly delivering punchlines and jokes that land with perfect comedic precision.

The iconic poster design

The film’s poster, featuring a suit-clad Michael Keaton and a bold, retro-inspired typography, has become an iconic symbol of the movie.

The legacy of Johnny Dangerously’s catchphrases

Even years after its release, the catchphrases from Johnny Dangerously continue to be referenced and quoted by fans, solidifying their place in pop culture history.

The comedic influence on future movies

Johnny Dangerously’s unique blend of comedy and action has had a lasting impact, inspiring future filmmakers to explore similar genres and comedic styles.

The memorable barbershop quartet scene

The barbershop quartet scene in Johnny Dangerously remains one of the most beloved and iconic moments in the film, showcasing the charm and talent of the actors.

The adoration of 80s movie enthusiasts

For fans of 80s cinema, Johnny Dangerously is a must-watch, encapsulating the humor and spirit of the era in a way that never fails to bring a smile to their faces.

The comedic prowess of Joe Piscopo

Joe Piscopo delivers a memorable performance as Danny Vermin, Johnny Dangerously’s main antagonist, bringing a perfect balance of comedy and menace to the character.

The timeless appeal of underdog stories

Johnny Dangerously taps into our love for underdog stories, with the titular character facing challenges and odds that he must overcome with wit and charm.

The quotable nature of the script

Thanks to its clever writing, Johnny Dangerously is filled with quotable lines that have become a part of movie enthusiasts’ lexicon, adding to the film’s enduring popularity.

The clever use of visual gags

From sight gags to comedic visual cues, Johnny Dangerously employs a range of visual techniques that enhance the comedic experience and bring laughter to audiences.

The comic relief provided by Marilu Henner

Marilu Henner’s portrayal of Lil in Johnny Dangerously brings much-needed levity and comic relief to the film, adding charm and humor to every scene she appears in.

The impact on future parodies

Johnny Dangerously has had a lasting impact on the world of parody films, influencing the comedic styles and storytelling techniques of future filmmakers in the genre.

The enduring appeal of mobster comedies

Mobster comedies, such as Johnny Dangerously, continue to captivate audiences with their unique blend of humor, action, and memorable characters that have become beloved icons.

The 41 Facts about the movie Johnny Dangerously

As we conclude our journey through the captivating world of Johnny Dangerously, we hope these 41 facts have provided a deeper appreciation for this timeless comedy and its enduring legacy in the realm of cinema.

Conclusion

Johnny Dangerously is a classic comedy film that has entertained audiences for decades. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and hilarious scenes, it has stood the test of time as a cult favorite. From the talented cast to the clever script, every aspect of the movie contributes to its enduring appeal.

Whether you’re a fan of comedy or just looking for a good laugh, Johnny Dangerously is a must-watch. With its timeless humor and iconic moments, it’s a film that continues to bring joy to audiences of all ages. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy this comedy gem.

FAQs

Q: Who directed Johnny Dangerously?

A: Johnny Dangerously was directed by Amy Heckerling.

Q: When was Johnny Dangerously released?

A: The film was released on December 21, 1984.

Q: Who starred in the movie?

A: The movie features a stellar cast including Michael Keaton, Joe Piscopo, Marilu Henner, and Danny DeVito among others.

Q: What is the plot of Johnny Dangerously?

A: The movie follows the life of Johnny Kelly, a kind-hearted man who gets pulled into a life of crime to support his family.

Q: Is Johnny Dangerously suitable for all audiences?

A: The film is rated PG-13 and contains some mild language and comedic violence.

Q: Are there any memorable quotes from the movie?

A: Yes, some of the most memorable quotes include “You fargin sneaky bastard”, “Once a sheister, always a sheister”, and “My mother hung me on a hook once. Once!”, among others.

Q: Has Johnny Dangerously won any awards?

A: While the film didn’t receive any major awards, it has gained a strong following over the years and is regarded as a classic comedy.

Q: Where can I watch Johnny Dangerously?

A: The movie is available for streaming on various platforms such as Amazon Prime, Hulu, and Netflix.

Q: Is there a sequel to Johnny Dangerously?

A: No, there is no sequel to Johnny Dangerously.

Q: Can you recommend other similar comedy films?

A: If you enjoyed Johnny Dangerously, you might also like films such as “Airplane!”, “Naked Gun”, and “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy”.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.