Airplane! – Film Review

Alcoholic pilot Ted Striker has developed a fear of flying due to wartime trauma, but nevertheless boards a passenger jet in an attempt to woo back his stewardess girlfriend. Food poisoning decimates the passengers and crew, leaving it up to Striker to land the plane with the help of a glue-sniffing air traffic controller and Striker’s vengeful former Air Force captain, who must both talk him down.

Airplane! is an iconic comedy film directed by the talented trio of Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker. Released in 1980, it has become a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its hilarious antics and clever parody. With a stellar ensemble cast, brilliant writing, and expertly executed slapstick humor, Airplane! remains a testament to the creative genius of its filmmakers.

From the very beginning, Airplane! establishes its comedic tone, taking no prisoners in its satirical assault on disaster movies. The film opens with a bang, as the audience is immediately thrown into a high-stakes situation aboard a troubled airplane. The writing is sharp and witty, packed with rapid-fire jokes and visual gags that keep viewers engaged and laughing throughout.

One of the film’s standout strengths is its talented ensemble cast, led by the incomparable Leslie Nielsen, who delivers a masterful comedic performance as the bumbling doctor, Rumack. Nielsen’s deadpan delivery and impeccable timing elevate the film’s humor to another level. He is complemented by a stellar supporting cast that includes Robert Hays as the charmingly naive pilot, Ted Striker, and Julie Hagerty as the delightfully clueless flight attendant, Elaine Dickinson. The chemistry among the actors is palpable, resulting in an effortless and seamless performance that brings the script to life.

The screenplay of Airplane! is a work of comedic genius. Written by the Zucker brothers and Jim Abrahams, it is filled with memorable one-liners and hilarious sight gags that have become ingrained in popular culture. The film skillfully parodies the disaster movie genre, with witty wordplay and clever subversions of audience expectations. The jokes range from the subtly absurd to the overtly outrageous, appealing to a wide spectrum of humor.

The direction in Airplane! is masterful, showcasing the trio’s keen eye for visual comedy. The slapstick sequences are flawlessly executed, with impeccable timing and precision. The directors utilize every inch of the frame to maximize comedic impact, often filling the background with subtle visual gags that reward attentive viewers. The pace of the film is brisk, never allowing a dull moment to creep in, and the inventive use of editing adds to the overall comedic effect.

Beyond its humor, Airplane! also excels in its attention to detail. The film is packed with clever references and subtle nods to other films, creating an extra layer of enjoyment for cinephiles. From the famous “Surely you can’t be serious” line that pays homage to Nielsen’s earlier film, The Poseidon Adventure, to the hilarious parody of the Saturday Night Fever dance scene, the filmmakers exhibit a deep knowledge and appreciation for cinema, making Airplane! a treasure trove of cinematic Easter eggs.

The film’s production design and cinematography deserve praise as well. Despite its low budget, Airplane! manages to create an authentic and believable aircraft setting, complete with cramped spaces, overhead compartments, and even the iconic cockpit. The lighting and camera work effectively capture the intensity of the flight sequences while maintaining a comedic tone.

Furthermore, the film’s soundtrack enhances the overall experience. The use of well-known songs, such as “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, expertly adds to the comedic timing and heightens the hilarity of the scenes they accompany. The score, composed by Elmer Bernstein, perfectly complements the film’s tone, seamlessly blending with the action on screen.

Airplane! is a comedic masterpiece that has stood the test of time. The trio of directors, Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker, expertly craft a hilarious and memorable film that remains as fresh and funny as ever. The brilliant writing, talented ensemble cast, and impeccable direction make Airplane! a must-watch for comedy enthusiasts of all generations.