29/10/2024
When John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd first appeared as Jake and Elwood Blues in "The Blues Brothers" (1980), they formed an iconic duo that resonated with audiences. Known for their electric chemistry on "Saturday Night Live," the two comedians brought a unique blend of humor and passion to the film. The making of "The Blues Brothers" wasn't just about creating laughs—it was fueled by Aykroyd's deep love for blues music, Belushi's captivating personality, and an unpredictable production journey that nearly went off the rails.
Belushi, often referred to as "America’s Guest" for his uncanny ability to score free food and drinks, was the star both on and off the set. His energy was unmatched, and his antics were legendary. One night, he wandered off the set in a Chicago suburb, only to be found hours later asleep on a stranger’s couch, who had been charmed by Belushi earlier in the evening and didn’t mind his uninvited guest.
Aykroyd had written a massive 300-page script draft, filled with backstory on the Blues Brothers, their love for the blues, and a guide to Chicago’s music scene. Director John Landis had to pare it down, centering the story on Jake and Elwood’s mission to save their childhood orphanage by reuniting their old band. With musical legends like Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and James Brown joining in, the film became a tribute to the blues, blending music and comedy in a way that captivated audiences.
The film’s car chases were groundbreaking, setting a record for the most cars destroyed in one movie at the time, with 103 vehicles smashed. Belushi and Aykroyd insisted on real high-speed chases, with Belushi often performing his own stunts. His dedication to keeping scenes authentic led to a few injuries, but he pressed on, committed to delivering his best.
Off the set, Belushi’s lifestyle was as wild as his character’s. Aykroyd later shared how Belushi’s drug use escalated during filming. Often, he would party all night and arrive on set with a renewed burst of energy. His charm never seemed to wane, but the physical toll became apparent. Aykroyd felt a strong responsibility to support his friend and ensure the production stayed on course, even as the pressures grew.
Ray Charles admired Belushi’s genuine respect for the music, noting how seriously he approached his performances. Belushi’s rendition of "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love" captured his raw energy, with Aykroyd’s harmonica playing adding an extra layer of authenticity to their scenes together.
Despite facing budget worries and the challenges of Aykroyd's unconventional storytelling, Universal Pictures pressed on. The cast's undeniable talent kept producers confident. In one memorable scene at Ray’s Music Exchange, Belushi’s spontaneous dance moves left the crew amazed, while Aykroyd’s steadiness grounded the scene, cementing their dynamic partnership.
Belushi’s on-set pranks were constant. From filling Aykroyd’s trailer with live chickens to swapping props, his humor kept the atmosphere lively. Director Landis, though occasionally frustrated, acknowledged that their chemistry was invaluable. The crew couldn’t help but laugh, recognizing that the duo’s antics would translate into magic on the screen.
For the film’s grand finale, Chicago residents lined the streets as Belushi and Aykroyd tore through downtown, pursued by a mountain of police cars. Aykroyd described this scene as a tribute to Chicago, capturing the spirit and vibrancy of the city that had supported them through every wild twist of their unforgettable journey.
