Are you in the mood for a cult '80s classic? BBC Two is airing The Blues Brothers on Sunday, making it the perfect excuse to revisit one of the most beloved comedy films of all time.
Directed by John Landis, the musical action-comedy stars John Belushi as "Joliet" Jake Blues and Dan Aykroyd as his brother, Elwood. After Jake is released from prison, the pair set out to reunite their old band in a bid to save the orphanage where they were raised.
© Corbis via Getty ImagesAlong the way, they encounter a series of obstacles, fleeing Nazis, the police and country singers as they race to put on one unforgettable show.
Released in 1980, the film was well received by critics and has since become a cult classic. It also features a host of musical legends and famous cameos, including James Brown, Cab Calloway, Aretha Franklin, Carrie Fisher, Henry Gibson and Twiggy.
Intrigued? Keep reading for everything you need to know about The Blues Brothers before it airs on BBC Two on Sunday and becomes available to stream on iPlayer.
What have viewers said about The Blues Brothers?
The film proved a hit with both critics and audiences, earning a 72 per cent critics' score and an impressive 92 per cent audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
"I can't recommend this movie enough. It's hilarious, tells a good story, has great music and great acting. ABSOLUTE CINEMA!" said one viewer, while another wrote: "Pure Chicago soul, legendary characters, non-stop music, outrageous comedy and heart combine into one of the greatest comedies ever made."
© Corbis via Getty ImagesMeanwhile, a third added: "An absolute classic. For the music, the energy, the stunts, special effects and the humour. All the cameos by music greats make this film all the more worthwhile."
As for what critics said, the BBC hailed it: "One of the great American comedy films... It's just a joy to watch even forty three years on. John Belushi was never better as the lead. He's funny just standing there."
The Chicago Tribune added: "The Blues Brothers is the year's best film to date; one of the all-time great comedies; the best movie ever made in Chicago. All are true, and, boy, is that ever a surprise."
What is The Blues Brothers about?
Set in Chicago, the film follows two brothers whose characters originated in the recurring "Blues Brothers" musical sketch on Saturday Night Live.
© Corbis via Getty ImagesThe synopsis reads: "Jake Blues rejoins his brother Elwood after being released from prison, but the duo have just days to reunite their old R&B band and save the Catholic home where the two were raised, outrunning the police as they tear through Chicago."
Who stars in The Blues Brothers?
The film is led by John Belushi (Saturday Night Live) as "Joliet" Jake Blues and Dan Aykroyd (Ghostbusters) as Elwood Blues.
The film also features appearances from a host of legendary musical icons, including Aretha Franklin as Mrs. Murphy, James Brown as Reverend Cleophus James, Ray Charles as Ray, Cab Calloway as Curtis and John Lee Hooker as Street Slim.
© Corbis via Getty ImagesOther stars in supporting roles include Carrie Fisher, Henry Gibson, John Candy, Kathleen Freeman and Twiggy.
The Blues Brothers airs on BBC Two at 10.45pm on Sunday and will be available to watch on iPlayer afterwards.
