Airplane II: The Sequel
Released on Fri, December 10, 1982
"Airplane II: The Sequel" picks up the slapstick reins from its predecessor, thrusting audiences into a new airborne catastrophe, this time in the vast emptiness of space. Forget cramped airplane cabins; the sequel blasts off into the cosmos aboard the Mayflower One, a passenger space shuttle on a routine trip to the moon. However, this voyage is anything but smooth sailing, as a major malfunction jeopardizes everyone on board. The shuttle's onboard computer, a supposedly infallible piece of technology, goes haywire, inexplicably redirecting the vessel on a collision course with the scorching surface of the sun.
The only hope for survival rests on the shoulders of a familiar face: Ted Striker. Our perpetually troubled hero, haunted by past failures and labeled as mentally unstable, finds himself unexpectedly thrust back into the role of savior. Striker, known for his peculiar brand of heroics and a knack for attracting disaster, is the only one who believes he can avert the impending solar inferno and guide the wayward shuttle back to safety. He must navigate the treacherous depths of space, outwit the malfunctioning computer, and contend with the mounting panic of the passengers and crew.
Adding another layer of complexity to the already chaotic situation is Striker's ongoing struggle to reconcile with his former love, Elaine Dickinson. The romantic tension between the two, a recurring theme from the original film, resurfaces amidst the intergalactic crisis. Striker's attempts to win back Elaine's heart are interwoven with the life-or-death stakes of the shuttle's perilous journey. The fate of their relationship hangs in the balance, mirroring the uncertainty surrounding the mission's success.
The movie relentlessly throws a barrage of jokes, sight gags, and absurd scenarios at the audience, maintaining the signature comedic style of the original "Airplane!". From malfunctioning vending machines dispensing bizarre concoctions to space pirates attempting to hijack the shuttle, "Airplane II" rarely misses an opportunity for comedic chaos. The film parodies not only disaster movies but also space exploration narratives, poking fun at the tropes and conventions of the genre.
Despite facing an overwhelming challenge and personal demons, Ted Striker is determined to rise to the occasion. The film follows his journey from being a perceived madman to becoming the ultimate hero, proving once again that even the most unlikely individual can achieve greatness. His courage, albeit unconventional, becomes the beacon of hope for the passengers and crew, leading them toward a potential rescue.
In the end, "Airplane II: The Sequel" aims to deliver a comedic spectacle, filled with zany characters, outrageous situations, and an unwavering commitment to absurdity. While striving to recapture the magic of the original, it takes its comedic sensibilities to new heights, or rather, new orbits. The film attempts to entertain audiences with its unique blend of disaster movie parody and romantic subplot, ensuring that laughter is the ultimate flight plan.
Lloyd Bridges
as Steve McCroskey
Raymond Burr
as Judge D.C. Simonton
Chuck Connors
as The Sarge
Rip Torn
as Bud Kruger / President Reagan
John Dehner
as The Commissioner
Chad Everett
as Simon Kurtz
Peter Graves
as Capt. Clarence Oveur
Julie Hagerty
as Elaine Dickinson