Before Airplane, There Was Kentucky Fried Movie: 12 Wild Stories!

Before “Airplane!,” there was “The Kentucky Fried Movie,” a raunchy, low-budget sketch comedy film that served as a training ground for the comedic talents of Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers, David and Jerry. Released in 1977, the film, a collection of irreverent skits and parodies, defied expectations and became a cult classic. Now, decades later, previously unknown details and behind-the-scenes anecdotes are surfacing, revealing the chaotic and creative process behind its creation.

“The Kentucky Fried Movie,” a film of loosely connected sketches and parodies, launched the careers of the comedic trio behind “Airplane!” and “Top Secret!” But the road to cult status was paved with guerilla filmmaking, creative risks, and a healthy dose of absurdity. Here are 12 wild stories that reveal the improbable journey of how this film came to be.

1. John Landis’s Crucial Role: John Landis, already a rising star after his debut film “Schlock,” played a pivotal role in getting “The Kentucky Fried Movie” off the ground. Abrahams and the Zuckers sought Landis out, hoping he would direct their screenplay. Landis recognized the potential but was committed to directing “Animal House”. “We wanted Landis to direct it. I knew Landis,” Jerry Zucker recalled. Landis ultimately passed on directing but, crucially, agreed to executive produce. This gave the project credibility and opened doors to financing and distribution. He suggested Robert K. Weiss, a friend from USC, as the director.

2. Robert K. Weiss: The Unsung Director: Robert K. Weiss, a USC film school graduate, took on the daunting task of directing the Zucker-Abrahams-Zucker script. While the ZAZ trio were the creative force behind the humor, Weiss was instrumental in translating their vision onto the screen. “He was a real director,” Jerry Zucker noted, highlighting Weiss’s technical skills and ability to manage the chaotic production. Weiss’s steady hand guided the film through its low-budget constraints and ensured that the sketches, however absurd, were visually coherent. He later went on to produce films such as “Amazon Women on the Moon” and “Police Squad!”.

3. The Guerilla Filmmaking Style: With a shoestring budget, the production relied heavily on guerilla filmmaking tactics. This meant shooting quickly, often without permits, and improvising solutions to logistical challenges. One memorable anecdote involves shooting a scene at a bowling alley. The crew didn’t have permission and had to film quickly before they were discovered. This type of resourcefulness was essential to completing the film on time and within budget. “We just went and did it,” Jerry Zucker stated, emphasizing the seat-of-their-pants approach.

4. “United Appeal” and the Power of Parody: One of the film’s most memorable sketches, “United Appeal,” is a biting parody of public service announcements. It features a series of increasingly absurd scenarios designed to elicit sympathy and donations. The sketch’s humor comes from its exaggerated portrayal of emotional manipulation and its willingness to tackle taboo subjects. The sketch’s impact lies in its sharp satire of charitable appeals and its exploration of the absurdity of human suffering when presented in a detached, comedic way.

5. George Lazenby’s Cameo as Bruce Lee: In one of the film’s most audacious moves, George Lazenby, best known for his brief stint as James Bond in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” played Bruce Lee in a parody of martial arts films. Lazenby fully committed to the role, embracing the over-the-top action and comedic elements. This unexpected casting choice added to the film’s overall sense of irreverence and contributed to its cult appeal. “George Lazenby was a great guy,” Jerry Zucker recalled, emphasizing Lazenby’s willingness to embrace the film’s absurd humor.

6. Donald Sutherland’s Uncredited Appearance: Donald Sutherland, already a major star, made an uncredited appearance in “The Kentucky Fried Movie.” His participation, however brief, lent the film a touch of Hollywood legitimacy and further boosted its visibility. Sutherland’s willingness to be involved in such a low-budget, offbeat project speaks to the film’s unique appeal and the respect it garnered within the industry. Sutherland appears in the “Catholic High School Girls in Trouble” segment, a parody trailer that became one of the film’s most iconic moments. His presence in a film known for its outrageous humor underscores the film’s ability to attract established talent despite its unconventional nature.

7. The Title That Almost Wasn’t: The film’s title, “The Kentucky Fried Movie,” was a deliberate attempt to capitalize on the popularity of Kentucky Fried Chicken (now KFC). However, the filmmakers initially faced legal challenges from the fast-food chain. To avoid a lawsuit, they made a slight alteration, adding the word “Fried” to the title. This simple change was enough to satisfy the lawyers and allowed the film to proceed with its intended name. “It was just a way to get attention,” Jerry Zucker said of the provocative title.

8. A Soundtrack of Obscure Gems: The film’s soundtrack features a collection of obscure and quirky songs that perfectly complement its offbeat humor. The music adds to the film’s overall sense of nostalgia and enhances the comedic timing of the sketches. The choice of music reflects the filmmakers’ commitment to creating a unique and unconventional cinematic experience. The soundtrack’s eclecticism mirrors the film’s diverse range of comedic styles and contributes to its enduring appeal.

9. The Importance of the MPAA Rating: “The Kentucky Fried Movie” received an X rating from the MPAA due to its explicit content and raunchy humor. While this initially posed a challenge for distribution, it ultimately contributed to the film’s notoriety and helped to attract a wider audience. The X rating became a badge of honor, signaling to viewers that the film was pushing boundaries and offering something different from mainstream cinema. It was later re-rated as an R. “We wanted to get an X rating,” Jerry Zucker admitted, revealing that the filmmakers deliberately pushed the boundaries of acceptable content.

10. A Launchpad for Talent: “The Kentucky Fried Movie” served as a launchpad for the careers of not only the ZAZ trio but also several other actors and filmmakers. Many of those involved went on to achieve success in Hollywood, solidifying the film’s legacy as a training ground for comedic talent. Its impact extends beyond its immediate success, shaping the landscape of comedy filmmaking for years to come.

11. The “A Fistful of Yen” Segment: The centerpiece of the film is a 35-minute parody of martial arts films entitled “A Fistful of Yen.” This segment is a showcase for the film’s brand of absurdist humor, featuring over-the-top action sequences, ridiculous dialogue, and a healthy dose of slapstick. The segment’s success is a testament to the filmmakers’ ability to seamlessly blend different comedic styles and create something truly unique. It features impressive fight choreography, considering the film’s low budget, and parodies many tropes of the genre.

12. A Lasting Legacy: Despite its low budget and unconventional nature, “The Kentucky Fried Movie” has had a lasting impact on comedy filmmaking. Its influence can be seen in countless films and television shows that followed, solidifying its status as a cult classic. The film’s success paved the way for the ZAZ trio to create “Airplane!” and other iconic comedies, cementing their place in comedic history. The film’s legacy is not just in its humor but in its demonstration that creativity and innovation can thrive even within limited resources.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

1. What exactly is “The Kentucky Fried Movie” about?

“The Kentucky Fried Movie,” released in 1977, is a sketch comedy film consisting of a series of loosely connected parodies and skits. It satirizes various aspects of popular culture, including television commercials, public service announcements, martial arts films, and exploitation cinema. The humor is known for being irreverent, raunchy, and often absurd. The film has no central plot; instead, it relies on a rapid-fire succession of comedic vignettes.

2. How did Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers get the idea for “The Kentucky Fried Movie”?

Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers (David and Jerry) developed their comedic style performing sketch comedy in Madison, Wisconsin. They wanted to bring their stage show to the big screen. Their humor was inspired by a desire to challenge conventional comedy and push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable. The name was a play on the popular fast-food franchise, Kentucky Fried Chicken, which was a deliberate attempt to gain attention, even though they faced legal issues over the name. They saw a gap in the market for a film that was purely focused on comedic sketches without the constraints of a traditional narrative.

3. What was John Landis’s role in the making of “The Kentucky Fried Movie”?

John Landis served as an executive producer on “The Kentucky Fried Movie.” Abrahams and the Zuckers initially wanted Landis to direct, but he was already committed to directing “Animal House.” However, Landis recognized the potential of the script and agreed to produce, providing crucial support and credibility to the project. He also recommended Robert K. Weiss as the director. Landis’s involvement helped to secure financing and distribution for the film, making it possible for the ZAZ team to bring their vision to the screen. His endorsement signaled to the industry that this was a project worth taking seriously.

4. Why was “The Kentucky Fried Movie” initially rated X, and what impact did this have?

“The Kentucky Fried Movie” was initially rated X by the MPAA due to its explicit content, including nudity, profanity, and raunchy humor. While this rating initially presented challenges for distribution, it also generated significant publicity and contributed to the film’s notoriety. The X rating signaled to audiences that the film was pushing boundaries and offering something different from mainstream cinema. It gave the film a counter-cultural appeal, attracting viewers who were looking for something edgy and unconventional. The film was later re-rated as an R, which allowed it to reach an even wider audience.

5. How did “The Kentucky Fried Movie” influence the careers of Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers?

“The Kentucky Fried Movie” served as a crucial stepping stone in the careers of Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers (David and Jerry). It allowed them to hone their comedic style and demonstrate their ability to create absurd and hilarious sketches. The film’s success paved the way for them to write and direct “Airplane!” (1980), which became a massive commercial and critical success and cemented their place as leading figures in comedy filmmaking. “The Kentucky Fried Movie” provided them with the experience and confidence to tackle larger projects and develop their signature style of rapid-fire jokes and visual gags. It also established their reputation as innovators in the comedy genre.

6. What were some of the challenges faced during the production of “The Kentucky Fried Movie”?

The production of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” faced numerous challenges, primarily due to its low budget. The filmmakers relied heavily on guerilla filmmaking tactics, often shooting without permits and improvising solutions to logistical problems. They had to be resourceful and creative in order to make the most of their limited resources. Securing locations, casting actors, and creating special effects were all complicated by the budget constraints. Despite these challenges, the filmmakers were able to create a film that was both visually engaging and hilariously funny.

7. Can you describe the “A Fistful of Yen” segment in more detail?

“A Fistful of Yen” is a 35-minute segment within “The Kentucky Fried Movie” that parodies martial arts films, particularly those of Bruce Lee. It is a self-contained story featuring a hero battling various villains in a series of over-the-top fight sequences. The segment is filled with ridiculous dialogue, slapstick humor, and visual gags. George Lazenby, best known for playing James Bond, stars as a Bruce Lee-like character, adding to the segment’s comedic effect. The segment’s elaborate fight choreography and commitment to the genre parody make it one of the film’s most memorable and ambitious sequences. The humor derives from exaggerating the tropes of martial arts films to absurd levels.

8. What is the significance of Donald Sutherland’s uncredited appearance in the film?

Donald Sutherland’s uncredited appearance in “The Kentucky Fried Movie” is significant because it added a touch of Hollywood legitimacy to a low-budget, offbeat project. Sutherland, already a well-established actor, agreed to appear in the film as a favor to the filmmakers. His presence, even in a small role, helped to raise the film’s profile and attract attention from both audiences and industry professionals. It demonstrated that the film had something special to offer, despite its unconventional nature. Sutherland’s willingness to be involved also underscores the film’s appeal to actors who were looking for something different from mainstream roles.

9. How did the filmmakers navigate legal issues related to the film’s title?

The filmmakers of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” faced legal challenges from Kentucky Fried Chicken (now KFC) regarding the film’s title. To avoid a lawsuit, they made a slight alteration, adding the word “Fried” to the title. This subtle change was enough to satisfy the lawyers and allowed the film to proceed with its intended name. The incident highlights the challenges that independent filmmakers often face when dealing with large corporations and trademark issues. The filmmakers’ resourcefulness in finding a workaround demonstrates their determination to bring their vision to the screen.

10. What is the lasting legacy of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” in the world of comedy?

“The Kentucky Fried Movie” has had a lasting impact on comedy filmmaking, particularly in the development of parody and sketch comedy. It influenced countless films and television shows that followed, solidifying its status as a cult classic. The film’s success paved the way for the ZAZ trio to create “Airplane!” and other iconic comedies, cementing their place in comedic history. Its influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary comedians and filmmakers who have embraced its irreverent style and willingness to push boundaries. It demonstrated that low-budget films could achieve commercial success and critical acclaim through originality and comedic innovation.

11. Can you provide more details about the guerilla filmmaking techniques used during production?

The guerilla filmmaking techniques employed during the production of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” were essential due to the limited budget. These techniques involved shooting quickly and efficiently, often without formal permits or permissions. For example, scenes were filmed in public locations with minimal crew and equipment to avoid attracting attention from authorities. The filmmakers also relied on the generosity of friends and acquaintances for locations and resources. Improvisation was key, as the crew often had to adapt to unexpected challenges and make the most of available resources. This approach allowed them to capture footage and complete the film despite the financial constraints.

12. How did the soundtrack of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” contribute to the film’s overall comedic effect?

The soundtrack of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” played a significant role in enhancing the film’s comedic effect. It featured a collection of obscure and quirky songs that perfectly complemented the film’s offbeat humor. The music was carefully selected to match the tone and style of each sketch, adding to the overall sense of absurdity and irreverence. The use of unexpected musical choices often heightened the comedic impact of the scenes, creating a unique and memorable viewing experience. The soundtrack’s eclecticism mirrored the film’s diverse range of comedic styles, contributing to its enduring appeal.

13. What kind of audience did “The Kentucky Fried Movie” appeal to when it was first released?

“The Kentucky Fried Movie” initially appealed to a counter-cultural and youth audience seeking alternative and unconventional humor. Its raunchy content, satirical edge, and willingness to push boundaries resonated with viewers who were looking for something different from mainstream comedies. The film’s X rating (later R) further enhanced its appeal to audiences who were drawn to edgy and provocative content. College students and young adults, in particular, embraced the film’s irreverent style and its willingness to challenge societal norms.

14. Were there any specific sketches or parodies that were particularly controversial at the time of the film’s release?

Yes, several sketches in “The Kentucky Fried Movie” were considered controversial at the time of its release due to their explicit content, satirical targets, and irreverent tone. The “Catholic High School Girls in Trouble” segment, a parody trailer, was particularly provocative due to its suggestive themes and portrayal of religious figures. Other sketches that pushed boundaries included those dealing with taboo subjects, such as the “United Appeal” parody, which satirized charitable appeals with dark humor. The film’s willingness to tackle sensitive topics with a comedic lens often sparked debate and discussion.

15. How did Robert K. Weiss’s direction influence the final product of “The Kentucky Fried Movie”?

Robert K. Weiss played a crucial role in directing “The Kentucky Fried Movie,” bringing technical skills and directorial vision to the ZAZ team’s comedic concepts. As the director, Weiss translated their scripts into a cohesive visual medium, helping maintain a consistent style across varied scenes. He managed the logistical complexities of production, including filming and editing, ensuring that despite low-budget conditions, the result was cinematically effective. Weiss’s creative input and leadership unified the disparate sketches, contributing significantly to the final form and impact of the movie.

16. Can you elaborate on the “United Appeal” sketch and its satirical message?

The “United Appeal” sketch in “The Kentucky Fried Movie” is a biting parody of public service announcements (PSAs) and charitable fundraising campaigns. It employs dark humor to satirize the tactics often used to elicit emotional responses and donations. The sketch presents a series of increasingly absurd and exaggerated scenarios intended to shock and amuse viewers while highlighting the manipulative nature of some PSAs. By exaggerating the pleas for help and presenting them in a comedic context, the filmmakers critique the commercialization of compassion and the sensationalization of human suffering.

17. What role did improvisation play in the making of “The Kentucky Fried Movie”?

Improvisation was a significant element in the making of “The Kentucky Fried Movie.” Given the film’s low budget and guerilla filmmaking style, the actors and crew often had to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and make creative decisions on the spot. While the script provided a framework for the sketches, there was room for improvisation in the dialogue and physical comedy. This allowed the performers to bring their own personalities and comedic sensibilities to their roles, enhancing the film’s spontaneous and unpredictable humor.

18. How did “The Kentucky Fried Movie” contribute to the development of the parody genre in film?

“The Kentucky Fried Movie” made a significant contribution to the development of the parody genre in film. Its format, consisting of loosely connected sketches and parodies of various film genres and media formats, served as a template for future parody films. The film’s success demonstrated the potential of parody as a comedic tool and paved the way for other filmmakers to explore this genre. The ZAZ team, in particular, built upon the foundation laid by “The Kentucky Fried Movie” to create more sophisticated and successful parodies, such as “Airplane!”

19. What is the general critical consensus on “The Kentucky Fried Movie” today, decades after its release?

Today, the critical consensus on “The Kentucky Fried Movie” is mixed, but it is generally recognized as a cult classic and a significant film in the history of comedy. While some critics find the film’s humor to be juvenile and offensive, others appreciate its irreverence, creativity, and historical significance. It is often praised for its influence on subsequent parody films and for launching the careers of the ZAZ team. The film’s enduring popularity and its continued presence in popular culture attest to its lasting impact.

20. What are some lesser-known facts or anecdotes about the making of “The Kentucky Fried Movie” that might surprise viewers?

One lesser-known fact is that several of the actors and crew members worked on the film for little or no pay, motivated by their belief in the project and their desire to gain experience. Another interesting anecdote is that some scenes were filmed in the filmmakers’ own homes or apartments to save on location costs. The filmmakers also used creative and resourceful techniques to create special effects, such as using household items and homemade props. These details highlight the dedication and ingenuity that went into making “The Kentucky Fried Movie” despite its limited resources.