The Blues Brothers

| 1980

Directed by: John Landis

Main Plot

The Blues Brothers, directed by John Landis, follows a mission to save a Catholic orphanage from foreclosure. The protagonists embark on a journey to reunite their old band and raise the necessary funds through a series of musical performances. Along the way, they encounter numerous obstacles, including law enforcement, rival musicians, and neo-Nazis, all while showcasing a deep love for blues music. The film blends comedy, action, and musical elements, featuring high-energy car chases and elaborate musical numbers. Themes of redemption, loyalty, and the power of music are central, as the characters navigate their chaotic adventure with unwavering determination to achieve their goal.

Characters

  • John Belushi plays "Joliet" Jake Blues, who, alongside his brother Elwood, embarks on a mission to save their childhood orphanage by reuniting their blues band for a fundraising concert.
  • Dan Aykroyd plays Elwood Blues, who, alongside his brother Jake, embarks on a mission to save their childhood orphanage by reuniting their band and raising $5,000.
  • Cab Calloway plays Curtis, the orphanage janitor and mentor to Jake and Elwood, who helps them reunite their band to save the orphanage from foreclosure.

Ending Explained

In the climactic ending, Jake and Elwood successfully evade a multitude of pursuers, including the police, a country band, and a group of neo-Nazis, all while racing to deliver the tax payment to save the orphanage where they were raised. Their journey culminates in a high-speed chase through the streets of Chicago, showcasing their determination and resourcefulness. The brothers' battered Bluesmobile finally reaches the Cook County Assessor's Office, where they rush inside to make the payment just in time. The significance of this moment lies in their unwavering commitment to their mission, despite the numerous obstacles they face. The comedic yet intense chase scenes highlight their resilience and the lengths they are willing to go to fulfill their promise. Upon successfully handing over the money, they are immediately arrested by the police, who have been hot on their trail. The final scene shows Jake and Elwood performing 'Jailhouse Rock' in prison, surrounded by fellow inmates. This ending underscores the theme of redemption and loyalty, as the brothers achieve their goal of saving the orphanage, even at the cost of their own freedom. Their musical performance in jail serves as a testament to their enduring spirit and love for music, regardless of their circumstances.

John Landis Action Adventure Comedy John Belushi Dan Aykroyd Cab Calloway