I must admit I never I quite “got” the appeal of this cult movie.  

It grew out of a musical sketch on Saturday Night Live featuring comedians John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd and the movie’s plot (such as it is) – “a mission from God” to save an orphanage  – is basically a loose framework on which to hang a ton of musical numbers and over-the-top car chases.

The musical performances are undeniably uplifting (both the live performances by Belushi and Aykroyd in character, with a crack backing band, plus those from an array of blues and soul greats, including a barnstorming turn from the great Aretha Franklin). However, the rest of the film does rather feel as though it was made up as they went along…no doubt with the help of a mountain of cocaine, which allegedly fuelled the production, and Belushi in particular.

The belated, unfunny 1998 sequel Blues Brothers 2000 has the minor distinction of topping the record (103) that the original movie set for Most Cars Destroyed during production (by one), but has zero else going for it – avoid!

This is the French ‘petit’ poster, which hails it as ‘the first asphalt-breaking musical film’ – an admittedly unique and neat encapsulation of what it has to offer!  This poster is currently available to buy here.