Airplane! (1980) | Classics Authority

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Airplane! (1980)

In 1980, the comedy film Airplane! took the world by storm with its hilarious and irreverent take on the disaster movie genre. Directed by Jim Abrahams and brothers David Zucker and Jerry Zucker, the film follows the misadventures of an ex-pilot who must overcome his fear of flying to safely land a plane that has fallen ill to food poisoning. Known for its quick-witted humor, slapstick comedy, and memorable one-liners, Airplane! remains a beloved cult classic to this day.

The Plot

Airplane! opens with former pilot Ted Striker (played by Robert Hays) trying to win back his girlfriend Elaine (Julie Hagerty) who is a flight attendant. In a last-ditch effort, Ted boards her flight from Los Angeles to Chicago, but chaos ensues when the entire crew and many passengers fall ill after eating fish for dinner. With no other options, Ted must confront his fear of flying and take control of the plane to prevent disaster.

As Ted struggles to regain his composure and follow the instructions of the air traffic controllers on the ground, he is aided by a cast of quirky characters, including Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen) who tries to diagnose the sick passengers, and Rex Kramer (Robert Stack) who offers Ted guidance through a series of flashbacks to their time in the Air Force. As the situation grows increasingly dire, Ted must rely on his newfound friends and his own instincts to land the plane safely.

The Humor

One of the defining features of Airplane! is its rapid-fire humor and numerous sight gags that keep audiences laughing from start to finish. The film parodies the disaster movie genre, with references to films like Airport 1975 and Zero Hour! peppered throughout. The deadpan delivery of the lines by the cast adds to the absurdity of the situations they find themselves in, such as a blow-up auto-pilot named Otto and a singing nun who reassures passengers with a rendition of “Stayin’ Alive.”

The film’s zany humor and over-the-top gags were a departure from the more serious disaster films of the time, and Airplane! was praised for its refreshing take on the genre. From slapstick physical comedy to clever wordplay, the film’s jokes have stood the test of time and continue to entertain audiences decades later. Whether it’s the famous “I am serious… and don’t call me Shirley” line or the inflatable pilot who saves the day, Airplane! is filled with memorable moments that have become pop culture staples.

The Cast

Airplane! boasts an ensemble cast of talented actors who bring their comedic chops to the screen with unforgettable performances. Robert Hays shines as the hapless Ted Striker, balancing his physical comedy with moments of genuine emotion as he confronts his past and faces his fears. Julie Hagerty brings a sense of innocence and naivete to her role as Elaine, while Leslie Nielsen steals the show with his deadpan delivery and impeccable timing as Dr. Rumack.

Supporting players like Robert Stack, Peter Graves, and Lloyd Bridges round out the cast, each bringing their own unique brand of humor to the film. From the stoic Captain Oveur to the eccentric Johnny, played by Stephen Stucker, every character in Airplane! adds to the comedic chaos in their own way. The chemistry between the actors is palpable, with each performer fully committing to the absurdity of the script and creating a truly unforgettable ensemble.

The Legacy

Since its release in 1980, Airplane! has become a cultural touchstone, inspiring countless imitators and earning a permanent place in the pantheon of great comedy films. The film’s influence can be seen in the work of filmmakers like the Farrelly Brothers and Judd Apatow, who have cited Airplane! as a major influence on their own comedic sensibilities. The film’s rapid-fire jokes and absurdist humor have become hallmarks of the genre, setting a standard for future comedies to aspire to.

Despite its status as a cult classic, Airplane! has also garnered critical acclaim, with many praising its clever writing, strong performances, and innovative approach to comedy. The film was a box office success upon its release and has since spawned several sequels, though none have been able to capture the magic of the original. With its timeless humor and memorable characters, Airplane! remains a beloved favorite among audiences of all ages, proving that sometimes the best way to deal with life’s disasters is to just keep laughing.

In conclusion, Airplane! is a masterpiece of comedy filmmaking, blending slapstick humor, clever wordplay, and unforgettable performances to create a truly memorable viewing experience. If you’re in need of a good laugh, look no further than this classic film that continues to delight audiences over 40 years after its release. Strap in, buckle up, and prepare for a wild ride with Airplane!