
Airplane! Behind-the-Scenes of a Comedy Classic
About the Event:
When the film debuted in July of 1980, Airplane! had a budget of only $3.5 million, and yet it went on to earn nearly $200 million, gathering a rabid fan-base, inspiring countless comedians, and providing perhaps the most quotable lines of any comedy in cinematic history. In their new book, Surely You Can't Be Serious: The True Story of Airplane! , ZAZ (filmmakers David and Jerry Zucker and Jim Abrahams) share hilarious trivia and never-before-heard anecdotes about the creation of this classic movie. At Chicago Humanities, Mark Bazar of WTTW’s The Interview Show sits down with writer/director David Zucker (and a special zoom appearance from his brother and fellow Airplane! filmmaker Jerry) for a night of laughter and nostalgia, as we dive into clips, images, and stories from behind-the-scenes of this legendary comedic gem. For a special keepsake, books pre-signed by all three filmmakers will be available for purchase.
- This program is presented as part of the Roger & Elaine Haydock Humor Series.
- Chicago Humanities is pleased to partner with the Seminary Co-op Bookstores, a Chicago not-for-profit bookstore whose mission is bookselling. Pre-order your pre-signed copy of Surely You Can't Be Serious: The True Story of Airplane! through the Chicago Humanities Box Office and save 20% while supporting local, independent bookselling. Add books to your cart when adding tickets. Your receipt will contain a book voucher, which you will show to the bookseller on-site to pick up your book(s).
- Please visit our FAQ for more information about ticketing, books, accessibility options, and other event logistics.
[Event tile image description: The event image at the top left of the event page is a photograph of the Airplane! poster, an airplane in a blue sky. Image credit: Hulu]













