The Blues Brothers (1980)

Brief Intro

“The Blues Brothers” (1980) is a musical comedy directed by John Landis, starring John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd as Jake and Elwood Blues. The film follows the brothers on a “mission from God” to save their childhood orphanage by reuniting their band and raising $5,000 through a series of musical performances and wild adventures.

Literary Devices Used in The Blues Brothers

1. Irony

Irony is abundant in The Blues Brothers, where situations often turn out contrary to what is expected, adding layers of humor and depth.

Movie Scene	Device Example
Jake and Elwood confidently announce they’re on a “mission from God,” yet their methods include felonies and chaotic chases.	Verbal Irony: The serious declaration contrasts with their absurd actions.
The car chase through a shopping mall, causing immense destruction while Elwood nonchalantly shops for a new watch.	Situational Irony: Expected behavior in a mall is calm shopping, not a high-speed chase.

2. Satire

The film uses satire to comment on various societal issues, often through humor and exaggeration.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The depiction of law enforcement as bumbling and ineffective, constantly failing to catch the Blues Brothers.	Satire on police incompetence and bureaucracy.
The exaggerated portrayal of the Illinois Nazis as laughable villains.	Satirical take on extremist groups, diminishing their power through ridicule.

3. Symbolism

Symbols in The Blues Brothers add deeper meaning to the narrative, often representing broader themes.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Bluesmobile, a seemingly indestructible car that helps Jake and Elwood on their mission.	Symbol of divine intervention and perseverance.
The sunglasses and black suits worn by Jake and Elwood.	Symbol of their commitment to their blues persona and mission.

4. Allusion

Allusions in the film reference cultural, historical, and religious elements, enriching the story.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The mission to save the orphanage, reminiscent of various religious quests and pilgrimages.	Allusion to biblical missions and divine quests.
The cameo of Aretha Franklin, alluding to her real-life status as the “Queen of Soul.”	Allusion to her legendary music career, enhancing the film’s musical authenticity.

5. Hyperbole

Hyperbole, or deliberate exaggeration, is used for comedic effect throughout the film.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The car pile-up scene, with an absurdly high number of crashed police cars.	Exaggeration to highlight the chaos and comedy.
Jake and Elwood’s dramatic jumps and flips during musical performances.	Hyperbolic portrayal of their musical prowess and showmanship.

6. Motif

Recurring motifs in The Blues Brothers reinforce the film’s themes and character arcs.

Movie Scene	Device Example
Repeated scenes of Jake and Elwood escaping in the Bluesmobile.	Motif of escape and pursuit, symbolizing their relentless mission.
The recurring line, “We’re on a mission from God.”	Motif emphasizing their divine purpose and determination.

7. Parody

Parody in the film mocks various genres and conventions, adding a layer of humor.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The elaborate musical numbers parodying classic Hollywood musicals.	Parody of traditional musical film tropes.
The over-the-top action sequences mimicking action movie clichés.	Parody of action genre conventions, adding humor through exaggeration.

8. Foreshadowing

Foreshadowing hints at events to come, creating suspense and cohesion in the narrative.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The early scene where Jake receives his harmonica back, foreshadowing his return to music.	Subtle hint at the Blues Brothers’ musical revival.
The nun’s warning about the orphanage’s financial troubles.	Foreshadowing the central conflict and mission of the film.

9. Metaphor

Metaphors in the film convey deeper meanings and comparisons, enhancing the storytelling.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The Bluesmobile as a metaphor for their journey and resilience.	Represents their indomitable spirit and divine support.
The climactic concert as a metaphor for redemption and unity.	Symbolizes their success in uniting people through music.

10. Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition in the film contrasts different elements to highlight differences and create humor.

Movie Scene	Device Example
The gritty urban setting of Chicago juxtaposed with the soulful, joyous music performances.	Highlights the contrast between environment and culture.
The sophisticated, wealthy crowd at the Palace Hotel Ballroom contrasted with the rowdy Blues Brothers’ performance.	Emphasizes the clash between high society and blues culture.

The Blues Brothers (1980) is a treasure trove of literary devices that enrich its narrative and humor. Through irony, satire, symbolism, and more, the film crafts a memorable journey of two unlikely heroes on their divine mission.

Character Analysis Through Literary Devices

Jake Blues

Device	Explanation
Symbolism	Jake’s dark sunglasses symbolize his desire to shield himself from the harsh realities of his past.
Irony	Despite his criminal background, Jake’s quest is ultimately noble, aiming to save the orphanage.

Elwood Blues

Device	Explanation
Motif	Elwood’s hat and sunglasses are a constant, symbolizing his steadfastness and loyalty to Jake and their mission.
Hyperbole	His nonchalant driving in dangerous situations emphasizes his unflappable nature.

Character Dynamics

Literary Device	Explanation
Dialogue	The witty banter between Jake and Elwood highlights their close bond and mutual understanding.
Irony	Their contrasting personalities—Jake’s impulsiveness and Elwood’s calm—create comedic tension that drives the narrative.

Thematic Analysis

Redemption

Device	Explanation
Symbolism	The journey to save the orphanage symbolizes Jake’s path to personal redemption.
Allusion	References to religious imagery underscore the theme of seeking forgiveness and atonement.

Loyalty and Brotherhood

Device	Explanation
Motif	The brothers’ matching outfits symbolize their unity and loyalty to each other.
Hyperbole	Their unwavering commitment to their mission, despite absurd obstacles, emphasizes the depth of their brotherhood.

Cinematic Techniques That Enhance Literary Devices

Visual and Sound Techniques

Literary Device	Technique	Explanation
Symbolism	Lighting	The use of shadows and light in the prison scene highlights Jake’s initial entrapment and subsequent liberation.
Irony	Soundtrack	The juxtaposition of lively music with chaotic scenes enhances the comedic effect of the film’s irony.

Key Scene Analysis

Opening Prison Scene

• YouTube Link
• Breakdown: The dark, foreboding prison setting introduces Jake, establishing his need for redemption. The use of lighting and shadows emphasizes his entrapment and the journey he must undertake.

Church Revival Scene

• YouTube Link
• Breakdown: The energetic performance by James Brown foreshadows the band’s dynamic musical journey. The vibrant visuals and uplifting music contrast with Jake’s earlier gloom, highlighting his transformation.

Conclusion

Quiz Time!

1. What does Jake’s sunglasses symbolize?
   • A) Coolness
   • B) Shield from reality
   • C) Fashion statement
   • D) Anonymity
2. Which literary device is primarily used in the mall car chase scene?
   • A) Metaphor
   • B) Hyperbole
   • C) Allusion
   • D) Flashback
3. What theme is highlighted by the brothers’ unwavering mission?
   • A) Betrayal
   • B) Revenge
   • C) Loyalty and Brotherhood
   • D) Greed
4. What does the Bluesmobile symbolize in the film?
   • A) Speed
   • B) Identity and journey
   • C) Wealth
   • D) Danger