The Blues Brothers

The Blues Brothers
Name	The Blues Brothers
Director	John Landis
Producer	Robert K. Weiss
Writer	Dan Aykroyd, John Landis
Starring	John Belushi, Dan Aykroyd
Music	Ira Newborn
Cinematography	Stephen M. Katz
Editing	George Folsey Jr.
Studio	Universal Pictures
Released	1980
Runtime	133 minutes
Country	United States
Language	English

The Blues Brothers. The 1980 musical action comedy film directed by John Landis and starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as the titular brothers. The story follows "Joliet" Jake and Elwood Blues on a "mission from God" to save the Catholic orphanage where they were raised by reuniting their rhythm and blues band to perform a benefit concert. The film is renowned for its spectacular car chases, extensive musical numbers featuring legendary American music artists, and its enduring cult status.

Overview

The narrative begins with the release of Jake Blues from Joliet Correctional Center and his reunion with his brother Elwood in Chicago. After visiting the St. Helen of the Blessed Shroud Orphanage in Calumet City, run by Sister Mary Stigmata, they learn it will close unless a $5,000 tax payment is made. Inspired by a divine revelation in The Reverend Cleophus James's church, they vow to reform their old band. Their quest to gather members like Murphy "Murph" Dunne and Steve "The Colonel" Cropper puts them at odds with a mysterious woman, Illinois State Police, a country music band, and a Neo-Nazi group, leading to a climactic concert at the Palace Hotel Ballroom.

Cast and characters

John Belushi portrays the recently paroled Jake Blues, with Dan Aykroyd as his loyal, sunglasses-wearing brother Elwood. The supporting cast features Cab Calloway as their mentor Curtis, John Candy as a parole officer, and Carrie Fisher as Jake's vengeful ex-fiancée. The film is distinguished by cameos from iconic musicians, including Aretha Franklin as a diner owner, Ray Charles as a music shop proprietor, and James Brown as the charismatic Reverend. Other notable appearances include Henry Gibson as a Nazi leader, Charles Napier as a prison warden, and Frank Oz as a corrections officer.

Production

The project originated from the popular musical sketch on NBC's Saturday Night Live, developed by Aykroyd and Belushi. Director John Landis collaborated with Aykroyd on the screenplay, expanding the concept into a feature-length road movie. Filming took place primarily in Chicago and Los Angeles, with the production famously receiving unprecedented cooperation from the City of Chicago and the Illinois Department of Transportation. The elaborate chase sequences, particularly the destruction of a Dixie Square Mall in Harvey, Illinois, and the massive pile-up in Downtown Chicago, were logistically complex and costly, contributing to the film's status as one of the most expensive comedies of its time.

Music

The soundtrack is a celebration of rhythm and blues, soul music, and gospel music, performed by the band featuring legendary session musicians like Steve Cropper, Donald "Duck" Dunn, and Matt "Guitar" Murphy. Musical highlights include renditions of Sam & Dave's "Soul Man," Ray Charles's "Shake a Tail Feather," and Aretha Franklin's show-stopping "Think." The film also features performances of John Lee Hooker's "Boom Boom" and the band's own "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love." The music was produced by Bob Tischler for Atlantic Records, with the soundtrack album achieving multi-platinum status.

Release and reception

Upon its premiere in New York City and wide release by Universal Pictures in the summer of 1980, the film received mixed reviews from critics like Roger Ebert and Janet Maslin, with some criticizing its length and chaotic plot. However, it was a major box office success, grossing over $115 million worldwide. It was nominated for several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Score Soundtrack. Over time, critical reassessment has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its energetic musical performances and ambitious stunt work. The film's extended "Director's Cut" was later released on home media formats like DVD and Blu-ray.

Cultural impact

The film has exerted a profound influence on popular culture, cementing the characters' look of black suits, hats, and sunglasses as an iconic image. It significantly boosted the careers of the featured musical legends, introducing their work to a new generation. Phrases like "mission from God" and "We're on a mission from God" entered the lexicon. The success spawned a sequel, Blues Brothers 2000, animated series, and numerous tribute acts worldwide. The film is frequently cited for its impact on the city of Chicago, promoting its landmarks and serving as a touchstone for cinematic car chases. Its legacy is celebrated at fan conventions and through continued airings on cable networks like Comedy Central.

Category:1980 films Category:American films Category:Musical comedy films