Airplane Movie Poster Source Bing.com
Introduction
Airplane! is a 1980 comedy movie that has become a classic in the genre. The movie features a cast of famous actors like Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, and Leslie Nielsen. The story revolves around an ex-fighter pilot who is forced to take over as the captain of a commercial jetliner after the original crew falls ill from food poisoning. As the plane is in the air, chaos ensues, and it’s up to the hero and his air traffic controller girlfriend to save the day.
Robert Hays Source Bing.com
The Plot
The movie starts with a flight crew falling ill after eating fish. The only hope for the passengers is Ted Striker, an ex-fighter pilot who has a drinking problem and is traumatized by his past. He boards the plane to win back his girlfriend Elaine, who is a flight attendant on the flight. As the plane takes off, Ted must confront his fears and take control of the situation. With the help of his girlfriend and a few other passengers, Ted manages to land the plane safely.
The Characters
The movie has a cast of memorable characters, including:
- Ted Striker, the ex-fighter pilot played by Robert Hays
- Elaine, the flight attendant and Ted’s girlfriend played by Julie Hagerty
- Dr. Rumack, the doctor on board played by Leslie Nielsen
- Captain Oveur, the original pilot played by Peter Graves
- Steve McCroskey, the air traffic controller played by Lloyd Bridges
Lloyd Bridges Source Bing.com
The Humor
Airplane! is known for its slapstick humor, wordplay, and visual gags. The movie is full of puns, double entendres, and absurd situations. It’s a parody of disaster movies like Airport 1975 and Zero Hour!, and it takes every opportunity to make fun of the genre. The humor is over the top and silly, but it’s also clever and well executed.
The Legacy
Airplane! was a huge success when it was released in 1980. It grossed over $83 million at the box office and became a cultural phenomenon. It spawned two sequels, Airplane II: The Sequel and Airplane! III: The Reboot, as well as countless imitations and parodies. The movie has been referenced and quoted in pop culture for decades, and it’s still beloved by fans today.
Airplane Movie Scene Source Bing.com
The Impact
Airplane! was groundbreaking in its use of parody and satire. It paved the way for other comedies like The Naked Gun and Hot Shots!, and it inspired a generation of filmmakers to push the boundaries of comedy. The movie also helped to launch the careers of actors like Leslie Nielsen and writers like the Zucker brothers and Jim Abrahams. It’s a classic comedy that continues to entertain audiences of all ages.
The Awards
Airplane! was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy, and it won the Writers Guild of America Award for Best Adapted Comedy. The movie also received nominations for Best Cinematography and Best Sound at the Academy Awards.
Airplane Movie Awards Source Bing.com
The Soundtrack
The soundtrack for Airplane! was composed by Elmer Bernstein, who also composed the music for movies like The Magnificent Seven and Ghostbusters. The score is a mix of orchestral pieces and popular songs from the 70s, like “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees and “Saturday Night Fever” by the Bee Gees.
The Quotes
Airplane! is full of memorable quotes that have become part of the pop culture lexicon. Some of the most famous quotes from the movie include:
- “Surely you can’t be serious.” “I am serious, and don’t call me Shirley.”
- “Looks like I picked the wrong week to quit sniffing glue.”
- “We have clearance, Clarence.”
- “I am serious… and don’t call me Shirley.”
Airplane Movie Quotes Source Bing.com
The Conclusion
Airplane! is a classic comedy that has stood the test of time. It’s a movie that’s full of humor, heart, and great performances. The movie is a must-see for fans of comedy and parody, and it’s a movie that everyone can enjoy. If you haven’t seen Airplane! yet, be sure to check it out.
