The Blues Brothers Movie (1980)
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A The Blues Brothers Movie (1980) is a musical action Americana countercultural generational defining movie.
- Context:
- It can (typically) be directed by John Landis and starring Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi as the characters Elwood and Jake Blues.
- It can (typically) blend musical performances, action, and comedy, all centered around the two brothers trying to save the orphanage where they grew up.
- It can (typically) be classified as a musical comedy film with strong elements of action and adventure.
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- It can satirize White American Culture, particularly through exaggerated portrayals of authority figures and mainstream institutions.
- It can celebrate African American Culture, particularly blues and soul, positioning black artists.
- It can feature performances by legendary blues artists and soul artists, such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and Ray Charles.
- It can include American Blues (including Chicago Blues).
- It can include Canadian comedy talent.
- It can involve Car Chase Sequences.
- It can draw on mission to "put the band back together."
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- Example(s):
- the movie’s original preview screening in May 1980 in front of a select audience, showcasing the high-energy musical numbers and massive car chases for the first time.
- the opening night on June 20, 1980, when the movie officially premiered across theaters in the U.S., marking the debut of its unique blend of music and comedy.
- a 1981 re-release, driven by the growing cult following of the film after its initial box office run, leading to its spread in international markets.
- the 25th anniversary theatrical re-release in 2005, which included restored footage and a special edition DVD release with behind-the-scenes features.
- a 2024 revival screening in a theater, accompanied by a live blues band, showing the lasting appeal of the movie as part of a special anniversary celebration in Chicago.
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- Counter-Example(s):
- Wayne's World, a 1992 comedy that also features a journey across Chicago, but with a focus on a fictional rock band rather than the blues scene.
- O Brother, Where Art Thou?, which also involves a musical odyssey, but takes place in the American South and is based on Homer's Odyssey rather than urban blues culture.
- Ghostbusters Movie, which stars Dan Aykroyd and focuses on supernatural comedy, diverging from the musical and blues-heavy focus of The Blues Brothers.
- Rocky Horror Picture Show, another cult musical film, but centered around science fiction and horror themes, with a distinct focus on glam rock and audience participation.
- Animal House Movie, also starring John Belushi, but focusing on college fraternity life and raunchy humor, rather than the musical and action themes of The Blues Brothers.
- See: John Landis Films, Dan Aykroyd, Chicago Blues