Saturday, 22 June 2013

Great Party Films of 1978: National Lampoon's Animal House

In 1978, we were treated to not one, but two great party films. The first, "Up in Smoke" was covered last week. The second one was the all time classic "National Lampoon's Animal House." This film revolutionised the party attitude, especially in colleges for the next few years. I remember toga parties springing up around the area and not just in colleges. This film became an inspiration to anyone who wanted to party.
Animal House was the first film for John Belushi from Saturday Night Live fame. His role as Bluto made him a legend. It also encouraged a lot of people to smash cans on their head, but who cares, it was funny like the entire film. Also, how many of us wished they could down a fifth of Jack Daniels the way he did?
"Animal House" has another importance to the heavy metal world. If it hadn't been for this film, we never would have been treated to the ranting father in the Twisted Sister video "We're Not Gonna Take It." No one could have filled that role better than Mark Metcalf who played the infamous Niedermeyer in the film.
This film does get a mention in "Rock And Roll Children," since it is such a great party film, it was only natural the characters would want to watch it. So if you feel like drinking a skinful in the future, watch "Animal House" before you go out. You will be truly inspired! One word of warning though, stay away from the mayor's thirteen year old daughter.
Next Post: AC/DC- Powerage
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