"Spacejam" may have come out in 1996, but that doesn’t mean it still isn’t one of the best movies ever made. For those who haven’t seen it, this epic cartoon-real world crossover tells the story of how the Looney Tunes recruit Michael Jordan (who now is pursuing a baseball career) to help them play a basketball game against aliens who have taken over their world and are holding the Looney Tunes as slaves. Yes, the movie is cheesy, but the message behind it contains mixed in with all the other antics make it a classic. With that being said, here are ten reasons why the movie is one of the best.
1. It contains goofs, gaffs, and lots of laughs!
Alien theme parks, spit shining basketball courts, great fashion choices, and Wayne Knight gets inflated! These are just a few of the spotlighted moments from the hilarious film.
2. It has an all-star cast
Despite being a childhood favorite, it actually has one of the best casts ever put together both on screen and voice over wise. Some of the highlighted names on screen include Bill Murray, Wayne Knight, and of course Michael Jordan. And of course, we can’t forget the great voice overs from Danny DeVito, Billy West, and Dee Bradley.
3. Believe it or not, it contains a good message
Every great film has a message to go along with it and "Spacejam" is no exception. The movie clearly shows that if you believe in yourself you can achieve whatever your heart desires. That’s a message you can carry with you throughout your entire life.
4. Great soundtrack
A movie is nothing without some great tunes. And aside from the Looney Tunes, the musical soundtrack is something to remember as well. This childhood classic soundtrack contains the works of R. Kelly, D’Angelo, Coolio, LL Cool J, and so many more. Quad City DJ’s even brought us the hit song "Spacejam" written just for the movie. What else could anyone want?
5. Shows how there may be more to the world than we know
The movie touched on the hypothesis of there being life outside of what we know. This a theory people still are debating today. Let’s face it, Michael Jordan and his kids clearly did not expect the Looney Tunes to actually appear right in front of their faces. With that being said, maybe one day aliens will actually appear right in front of ours!
6. We get to see Michael Jordan attempt to play baseball
We all know by now that Michael Jordan and baseball didn’t mix. Luckily, he was a good enough sport to let that be a gag in the movie. We get to see him move off the court and onto the field. Who doesn’t want to see that?
7.Girl Power!
"Spacejam" also brought us a new Looney Tunes character, Lola Bunny. Everyone (including Bugs Bunny himself) just saw her as a pretty face. However, she ended up dominating the court showing that girls are much more than pretty faces. "Yes she was just a cartoon bunny, but that doesn’t mean she couldn’t be a role model for young girls!
8. Great for all ages
"Spacejam" isn’t one of those movies you just watch a few times when your little then never see again. It’s one of those movies that gives you positive vibes from the moment you hit play and hear R. Kelly belt out “I Believe I can Fly.” No matter how big, small, short or tall, "Spacejam" is great for all ages.
9. Great Ending
No movie is complete without a good ending. Not to give the ending away for those who haven’t seen it. But it definitely has the classic movie ending (along with getting to see Michael Jordan stretch his arm out beyond normal human length).
10. The film is able to make fun of itself
The film was made to be laughed at, and Warner Bros knew this when they made it. Therefore, they beat the audience to the punch line and made fun of itself. Just one more reason to appreciate it!
11.) Who doesn’t love the Looney Toons?
Seriously, who doesn’t love reckless behavior performed by cartoon animals!
So if you haven’t seen "Spacejam" (or forgotten all about it), be sure to dig around for an old VHS copy or order a copy now. You can even visit the classic "Spacejam" website (whose layout hasn’t been updated in 10+ years giving it a great and get it a great late 90’s feel) and get it right off their website!