The Blues Brothers
If you're seeking an explosion of youthful exuberance, then The Blues Brothers is a summertime extravaganza that hits all the right notes. It bursts with vibrant music, exhilarating chase sequences, and an endless barrage of slapstick comedy. Every element of the film is pushed to the extreme, ensuring a thrill ride for anyone who revels in unbridled enthusiasm and boundless energy.
John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, renowned for their Saturday Night Live fame, embody the roles of Jake and Elwood Blues, a pair of small-time criminals in Chicago who thrive on the rhythms of blues music. The movie kicks off with Jake's release from Joilet Prison, thanks to his good behavior. A visit to their childhood Catholic orphanage ignites a newfound purpose in the brothers — the orphanage is in dire need of $5000 to settle its taxes and prevent closure. Subsequently, a transformative encounter at the Triple Rock Baptists Church compels Jake and Elwood to embark on a "mission from God" to reunite their band.
Aykroyd and director John Landis craft a screenplay that delves into the myriad of troubles that beset our black-suited heroes. Their adversaries include a duo of state troopers, a leader of a Nazi party and his loyal followers, a country band conductor, and a vengeful lady whom Jake once scorned. The ensuing misadventures fuel the comedic essence of The Blues Brothers.
This film boasts some of the most awe-inspiring chase scenes ever captured on celluloid, and that's no small feat given the multitude of movies that pride themselves on thrilling stunts. Notable highlights include a demolition derby within an indoor shopping mall, a heart-pounding police car collision with a massive truck, and the iconic "Bluesmobile" soaring over a raised drawbridge. The stunt crew led by Gary McLarty deserves an emphatic round of applause for their breathtaking work.
On another note, fans of The Blues Brothers' 1978 album, A Briefcase Full of Blues, will find great satisfaction in the musical performances showcased in the movie. Legendary artists such as James Brown, John Lee Hooker, Ray Charles, Cab Calloway, and Aretha Franklin deliver exceptional numbers that leave a lasting impact. Calloway's reprisal of "Minnie the Moocher" and Franklin's powerful rendition of "Think" stand out as truly inspired moments - and, best of all, the comical and clever dance routines performed by Jake and Elwood during their own musical interludes add an extra layer of amusement.
Release: 1980
Stars: John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd, Cab Calloway
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 72%
