Spaceballs

About Spaceballs

"Spaceballs" is a 1987 American comic science fiction film co-written, produced, and directed by Mel Brooks. The movie parodies popular science fiction films and franchises, especially Star Wars. The story follows the adventures of Lone Starr and his sidekick Barf as they try to rescue Princess Vespa of the planet Druidia and save her planet from the evil Dark Helmet and President Skroob.

Making/Production

Mel Brooks brought his unique comedic perspective to the science fiction genre in this film. Shot over the course of three months, "Spaceballs" used state-of-the-art special effects for its era, including models and matte paintings.

Actors

• Bill Pullman as Lone Starr - The protagonist hero who is hired to save Princess Vespa, played the character with a charming and comical touch.
• John Candy as Barf - Lone Starr's half-man, half-dog sidekick, Candy delivered a humourously heartwarming performance.
• Daphne Zuniga as Princess Vespa - Zuniga successfully portrayed an accurate parody of the damsel in distress.
• Rick Moranis as Dark Helmet - Moranis was memorable as the slightly goofy yet villainous Dark Helmet.
• Mel Brooks as President Skroob - As well as directing, Brooks played the comically corrupt President of the villainous Spaceballs.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• The title "Spaceballs" is a playful jab at the Star Wars sequel, "The Empire Strikes Back".
• John Candy had to wear a 30-pound animatronic tail for the role of Barf.
• Mel Brooks wanted to avoid an R-rating, so he intentionally used the made up curse word "schwartz".

Awards

This lighthearted film did not win any major awards, but it remains a fan-favorite and continues to delight audiences with its comedic spoof on popular science fiction films.

Quotes

• Dark Helmet: "I can't breathe in this thing!"
• Barf: "I'm a mog - half man, half dog. I'm my own best friend."
• Lone Starr: "May the Schwartz be with you."

Music/Soundtrack

• "Spaceballs Theme" - Performed by The Spinners
• "Colonel Sandurz / Planet Druidia" - John Morris
• "Hot Together" - Performed by The Pointer Sisters