The creation of *Airplane!* is a fascinating story of innovation and creativity. Directed by the trio of David Zucker, Jim Abrahams, and Jerry Zucker, the film marked their directorial debut and became a landmark in comedy cinema. This article delves into the production and development of *Airplane!*, highlighting the challenges and triumphs faced by its creators.
Inspiration and Script Development
The idea for *Airplane!* originated from the Kentucky Fried Theatre, a comedy group founded
by Zucker, Abrahams, and Zucker. While recording late-night television for comedy material, they stumbled upon the 1957 film *Zero Hour!* and found it to be a perfect template for a parody. The film's serious tone and structured plot provided a solid foundation for the comedic elements they wanted to introduce.
The script for *Airplane!* was initially written in 1975 and closely followed the dialogue and plot of *Zero Hour!*. The creators believed they needed to secure the rights to the original film to ensure their parody remained within legal bounds. They successfully obtained the rights for $2,500, allowing them to proceed with their vision.
Casting and Filming
One of the key decisions in the making of *Airplane!* was the casting of serious actors in comedic roles. The directors believed that actors like Robert Stack, Leslie Nielsen, and Lloyd Bridges, known for their dramatic performances, would bring a unique comedic element to the film. This casting choice proved to be a masterstroke, as the actors' deadpan delivery added to the film's humor.
Filming took place primarily at the Culver City Studios, with additional location shooting at Los Angeles International Airport. The production team faced challenges, such as Universal Pictures filing a complaint against Paramount, claiming that *Airplane!* plagiarized the *Airport* film series. However, the issue was resolved, and the film was released under the title *Flying High!* in some international markets.
A Legacy of Laughter
The success of *Airplane!* was not just a result of its innovative script and talented cast. The film's score, composed by Elmer Bernstein, played a significant role in enhancing its comedic impact. Bernstein, known for his work on classic films, provided a score that was both epic and corny, perfectly complementing the film's tone.
The making of *Airplane!* is a testament to the power of creativity and collaboration. The film's creators took a risk by venturing into uncharted comedic territory, and their efforts paid off. Today, *Airplane!* is celebrated as one of the greatest comedies of all time, a testament to the vision and talent of its creators.
