What car was used in The Blues Brothers movie?
In the world of cinema, certain vehicles become as iconic as the films themselves. One such vehicle is the 1974 Dodge Monaco, famously known as the "Bluesmobile" from the cult classic film, The Blues Brothers. This article explores the significance of this car in the movie and its lasting impact on pop culture.
The Bluesmobile: A Symbol of the Film
The Blues Brothers, released in 1980, features a storyline that revolves around Jake and Elwood Blues, two brothers on a mission to save the Catholic orphanage where they were raised. Their journey is filled with music, mayhem, and a series of car chases that highlight the importance of their vehicle—the Bluesmobile.
Why the Dodge Monaco?
The choice of a 1974 Dodge Monaco was not arbitrary. Here are a few reasons why this car was the perfect fit for the film:
- Classic American Muscle: The Dodge Monaco represents the quintessential American car of the era, embodying the spirit of freedom and adventure.
- Visual Appeal: Its large size and distinctive design made it visually striking, perfect for the film's high-energy car chases.
- Character Development: The car itself becomes a character in the film, reflecting the personalities of Jake and Elwood—rough around the edges but full of heart.
Impact on Pop Culture
The Bluesmobile has transcended its role in the film to become a cultural icon. Here are some ways it has influenced pop culture:
- Merchandising: The car has been featured in various merchandise, including model kits, toys, and apparel.
- Tribute Events: Car enthusiasts often recreate the Bluesmobile for car shows and events, celebrating its legacy.
- Film References: The Bluesmobile has been referenced in numerous other films and television shows, solidifying its status as a pop culture phenomenon.
Conclusion
The 1974 Dodge Monaco, or the Bluesmobile, is more than just a car; it is a symbol of the joy, chaos, and music that The Blues Brothers brought to audiences. Its legacy continues to inspire car lovers and film buffs alike, reminding us of the power of cinema to create lasting icons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did they actually drive through a mall in Blues Brothers?
19. That mall sequence — in which the Blues Brothers lead cops in a high-speed car chase at an indoor shopping mall — was filmed at the Dixie Square Mall in Harvey, which had been closed for a year when the production restored many of its storefronts. 20. While shooting the mall scene, Belushi disappeared.
Did Dan Aykroyd really drive in The Blues Brothers?
Technically, there were several Bluesmobiles in The Blues Brothers — 13 different Dodge Monacos were used in the stunt-heavy production, but only five of them housed Aykroyd and John Belushi.
How expensive was The Blues Brothers car chase?
Daley Center, a mechanic took several months to rig the car to fall apart. In the end, it was the most expensive sequence ever filmed in Chicago at over $3.5 Million.
What happened to the original Blues Brothers car?
Cars used in the film production
One was designed simply to fall apart upon its arrival at the Cook County Building.
Where did they get all the cars for Blues Brothers?
The film used 13 different cars to depict the Bluesmobile, all of which were former police cars purchased from the California Highway Patrol, and were mocked up to look like former Mount Prospect, Illinois patrol cars, which had an identical black and white paint scheme, making the conversion more simple.
Did John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd get along?
Aykroyd has kept Belushi close in many of his projects since, even including never-before-heard audio from the actor in the Audible Original. "I loved hearing John speak again," Aykroyd told PEOPLE. "He was a very sensitive and honest performer."
How many cars were wrecked in the original Blues Brothers movie?
103 cars
Most Cars Crashed in a Movie – Top 10
Back in the late 80's the Blues Brothers (1980) held the record of 103 cars destroyed in a hilarious scenes where police cars continuously piled on top of each other in a very comical fashion.
What kind of car does Carrie Fisher drive in The Blues Brothers?
1977 Pontiac Grand Prix
Carrie Fisher's 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix
This 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix isn't just a car; it's another character in the movie. Its sleek and sporty design, combined with the fact that it was driven by an enraged Carrie Fisher, made it a key element in the plot.
Was the mall scene in Blues Brothers real?
That mall sequence — in which the Blues Brothers lead cops in a high-speed car chase at an indoor shopping mall — was filmed at the Dixie Square Mall in Harvey, which had been closed for a year when the production restored many of its storefronts.
How many police cars were used in The Blues Brothers movie?
The film used a total of 13 different Monaco's to portray the infamous Bluesmobile. Over 60 police cars were purchase for the film's chase scenes and the production house kept a 24 hour body shop busy, which did the necessary repairs as they encounter them. This film had such a huge impact on my life as a kid.
