Fellman's Movie Reviews

Spaceballs is a parody of the original three Star Wars movies, written and directed by Mel Brooks. Mel has a starring role, as he always does in his films. But along with him are Bill Pullman, John Candy, Rick Moranis, Daphne Zuniga, George Wyner, and Joan Rivers doing the voice of Dot Matrix, Princess Vespa’s loyal droid. The movie was made in 1988. And even now, almost 40 years later, it’s still pretty hilarious. I’m not sure which one of Mel Brooks’ movies is the most popular, but I am sure that Spaceballs is the only one that’s getting a sequel 40 years after it was made. And it’s the only one that has a cult following. So, I’m willing to bet it’s probably this one. 

Part of the deal with George Lucas for letting Mel Brooks parody Star Wars was that he didn’t want there to be any Spaceballs action figures because they would look too similar to Star Wars action figures. This is what spurred Mel Brooks to write the famous merchandising scene in the movie. And why everything in the movie has the Spaceballs logo on it. It was a nod to George Lucas. And George thought it was hilarious when he saw it. Which, you have to appreciate. 

And, as usual, everything about the movie is pure genius. Mel Brooks has a way with words that most writers don’t think of. The dialogue on the Spaceballs ship where the entire crew’s last name is “asshole”. And Dark Helmet goes “I knew it, I’m surrounded by assholes…” That really is absolute hilarity. If you’re not laughing at that, you’re the problem. 

There’s just too many jokes to list them one by one in this review. I really wish I could, because I can talk about this movie all day long. But there’s also cameos from people who were also famous at the time. John Hurt from Alien makes an appearance where an alien pops out of his chest in a recreation of the scene from his famous movie. And Michael Winslow, of Police Academy fame, is a sound effects technician on the Spaceballs ship doing his signature noises.  

These things might not be as popular today as they were in the 80’s. But 40 years ago, they went over pretty well. The movie got mixed reviews when it first came out, and then became more and more popular until it became a cultural icon of comedy. So, yeah. Go and see Spaceballs. Not only is it Mel Brooks best movie, but there’s another one coming out pretty soon. And you’ll want to be up to speed when it does. And as always, may the Schwartz be with you…