Airplane!

Definition

The term 'airplane!' refers to a specific genre of comedy that parodies the conventions and tropes commonly found in disaster films, particularly those centered around aviation. It expertly blends humor with elements of suspense, creating a unique experience that critiques and exaggerates the seriousness of its source material. By incorporating absurdity and slapstick comedy, it challenges audience expectations and offers a fresh take on the genre it imitates.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Airplane!' was released in 1980 and is considered one of the most successful comedies of all time, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.
2. The film features a star-studded cast including Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, and Leslie Nielsen, who became famous for his comedic performances in this genre.
3. 'Airplane!' employs rapid-fire jokes, visual gags, and absurd situations that parody typical disaster movie tropes, such as the hero's journey and the impending crisis.
4. The movie's screenplay was written by Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers, who are known for their unique style of blending satire with slapstick humor.
5. 'Airplane!' has had a lasting influence on the comedy genre, inspiring countless parodies and imitations in films and television since its release.

Review Questions

• How does 'Airplane!' use parody to comment on disaster films, and what techniques does it employ to achieve this?
  • 'Airplane!' effectively uses parody to highlight the clichés found in disaster films by exaggerating their conventions. It employs techniques like rapid-fire jokes, absurd scenarios, and visual gags to create humor that critiques the seriousness of traditional narratives. The film's ability to blend slapstick with pointed commentary allows it to resonate with audiences while poking fun at familiar tropes.
• In what ways did the success of 'Airplane!' influence future comedies and parodies in film and television?
  • 'Airplane!' set a new standard for comedy by demonstrating that blending satire with slapstick could yield significant box office success. Its unique style inspired a wave of films and shows that sought to replicate its formula of rapid jokes and absurdity. Comedians and filmmakers began to adopt similar techniques to create their own parodies, ultimately shaping the landscape of comedic storytelling in media.
• Evaluate the impact of 'Airplane!' on cultural perceptions of both the aviation industry and disaster genres through its humor.
  • 'Airplane!' had a profound impact on cultural perceptions by using humor to both mock and humanize the aviation industry. By presenting exaggerated scenarios related to air travel alongside its comedic antics, it provided audiences with a lens through which they could view serious issues in a light-hearted manner. This approach not only entertained but also created a dialogue about the anxieties surrounding flying during a time when air travel was becoming increasingly popular.

Related terms

Parody: A humorous or satirical imitation of a particular genre, style, or work that exaggerates its characteristics for comedic effect.

Spoof: A light-hearted or comical take on a serious subject or genre, often using exaggerated elements to entertain and critique.

Satire: A genre that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize and mock societal norms, conventions, or specific individuals.