The Blues Brothers: An Epic Friendship, the Rise of Improv, and the Making of an American Film Classic

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The Blues Brothers hit theatres on June 20, 1980, with a mission to save a local Chicago orphanage, but Dan Aykroyd aimed to honor the rhythm and blues tradition, featuring legends like Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles. Despite delays, budget issues, and challenging on-set dynamics, the film initially faced harsh reviews. Over the past 44 years, it has been recognized as a classic, inducted into the National Film Registry for its cultural significance and even deemed a 'Catholic classic' by the Church, enjoying countless re-airings to global audiences. The saga behind the film is rich and colorful, tracing the childhoods of John Belushi and Aykroyd, the comedic revolution ignited by Harvard's Lampoon and Chicago's Second City, and the chaotic early years of Saturday Night Live, where the Blues Brothers act emerged. Daniel de Vise's exploration draws from original research and numerous interviews with key figures, including director John Landis and producer Bob Weiss, revealing the behind-the-scenes story of how this iconic film was crafted, scene by unforgettable scene. This work not only highlights an American masterpiece but also celebrates the creative minds that shaped modern comedy.