Friday, ITV4, 9:00pm
There are few films that manage to combine breakneck car chases, toe-tapping soul music, and comedy of such mythic proportions as The Blues Brothers (1980). Directed by John Landis, this cinematic gem follows the misadventures of Jake and Elwood Blues, played with irrepressible cool by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd. Tasked with a "mission from God," the brothers set out to save the orphanage where they were raised by reuniting their old blues band. Naturally, chaos ensues, and by chaos, I mean a trail of wrecked police cars, escaped convicts, and explosive cameos. The plot, loosely held together by a series of iconic musical performances, is more of a vehicle (pun intended) for showcasing the immense talent of the cast and the infectious rhythm of the soundtrack.
Speaking of the soundtrack, The Blues Brothers is a veritable feast for music aficionados. The film features legendary artists like James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Ray Charles performing some of their most memorable numbers. But the real stars are the blues and soul arrangements, courtesy of the Blues Brothers Band, an all-star lineup of musicians assembled for the film. Composed of top-tier session players like Steve Cropper and Donald "Duck" Dunn (of Booker T. & the MG’s fame), the band brings a raw, authentic sound that perfectly complements the brothers' on-screen antics. Elwood’s harmonica riffs paired with Jake’s powerful baritone create a blend of comedy and music that’s almost alchemical. Highlights include renditions of “Gimme Some Lovin’,” “Minnie the Moocher,” and the indomitable “Everybody Needs Somebody to Love”—each track a timeless reminder of the grit and groove of American soul music.
For collectors, the soundtrack is a delightful rabbit hole of editions, from the original LP pressings to reissues and deluxe versions. The album itself became almost as iconic as the film, and rightly so—there’s something almost magical about hearing these songs in their pristine, unfiltered form. Though snubbed at the Oscars (no surprise there—what do the Academy know about soul?), The Blues Brothers endures as a cult classic, not just for its riotous comedy, but for its undying reverence for rhythm and blues. Whether you’re watching for the music or the comedy, just remember: it's 106 miles to Chicago, you've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark… and you’ll need sunglasses.
- Paul Allen