Classic lampoon of disaster flicks is stupid but funny and launched a bevy of wanna-be spoofs. Former pilot Ted Striker (Hays), who's lost both his stewardess girlfriend Elaine (Hagerty) and his nerve, takes over the controls of a jet when the crew is hit with food poisoning. The passengers become increasingly crazed and ground support more surreal as our hero struggles to land the plane. Clever, fast-paced, and very funny parody mangles every Hollywood cliche within reach. The gags are so furiously paced that when one bombs it's hardly noticeable. Launched Nielsen's second career as a comic actor. And it ain't over till it's over: don't miss the amusing final credits. Followed by "Airplane 2: The Sequel."
Old gags still fly in Airplane! PeanutButterJellyTime at 2008-03-10 13:58:38
Yes, it released in 1980... but the sight gags and wacky humor are still a lot of fun to watch. (Not that you'd want to tell your friends that it's on your faves list.) Airplane! probably paved the way for the Ben Stiller and Will Ferrell comedies we enjoy these days. Barbara Billingsley's cameo appearance is legendary.