"Space Jam" (1996) | Sam Gall Movie Review Issue #125 Gem Mint 10.0
“Space Jam" (1996)
Director: Joe Pytka
Writer: Leo Benvenuti, Steve Rudnick, Timothy Harris
Starring: Michael Jordan, Wayne Knight, Theresa Randle, Billy Murray, Billy West, Dee Bradley Baker, Danny DeVito, Bob Bergen, Bill Farmer, June Foray, Maurice LaMarche, Kath Soucie
Rated: PG for some mild cartoon language
Runtime: 1h 28min
Genre: Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family, Sci-Fi, Sport
Country: United States
Language: English
Available on: HBO MAX
"In a desperate attempt to win a basketball match and earn their freedom, the Looney Tunes seek the aid of retired basketball champion, Michael Jordan."
You might like this if you like: 'Looney Tunes', Michael Jordan Basketball, Sports, Animation, Adventure, Comedies, Family Movies, Sci-Fi, Wayne Knight, Theresa Randle, Billy Murray, Billy West, Dee Bradley Baker, Danny DeVito, Bob Bergen, Bill Farmer, June Foray, Maurice LaMarche, Kath Soucie
Michael Jordan in "Space Jam" (1996)
I’m not sure why I never got to see this one as a kid. I finally caught this one in time for the 2nd one and absolutely fell in love with it. Yes, I’m mad at myself for not having seen it sooner, but better late than never.
Years before I ever watched the film, I fell in love with a specific song that I discovered in my early obsession with old school / golden era Hip-Hip. “Hit ‘Em High” was a goldmine for a classic hip-hip junkie like myself. The ultimate team of some of the best MCs that ever rapped on the mic. B-Real, Coolio, Busta Rhymes, Method Man & LL Cool J? Like Jesus Christ that’s the greatest of that time period. It’s still unbelievable for me to watch / listen to and remains to be one of my favorite songs, but was my only slice of “Space Jam” (1996) for years and years.
"Hit 'Em High" Official Music Video - B-Real, Method Man, Busta Rhymes, Coolio, LL Cool J
I’m not a sports fan, but I can appreciate a story and a film so I’m never discriminating any stories or films. Sports isn’t maybe my first choice, but I’m open to everything and watch everything. The fact that they had the 'Looney Tune's and Hip-Hop was enough of a sell for me. It also kind of occurred to me how cool it was they did such a crazy crossover back in 1996, when it seems like the norm to do today.
Michael Jordan is charming as hell, never watched a single game or seen him shoot a single hoop that I can recall honestly, but he won me over in this film for sure.
"Space Jam" (1996)
Wayne Knight is always fun! He was pretty great in this one I liked that it seemed like he got a bigger role in this than what I’m used to seeing him in. Bill Murray was an absolute treat! I didn’t expect to see him in this at all!
I really geeked out over the Patricia Heaton and Dan Castellaneta cameos! I mean 'Debra Barone' and 'Homer Simpson' as a couple? Yes please!
"Space Jam" (1996)
I loved the monsters! I didn’t think I was going to love them as much as I did as I had never seen them before. I get they’re original characters but in world full of IP I was pretty impressed with the impact they had on me. The transition they went through and the journey they go on is pretty great.
Wayne Knight in "Space Jam" (1996)
I wasn’t obsessed with the looney tunes growing up but I certainly enjoyed them enough to get excited seeing them all together and in new ground!
Michael Jordan in "Space Jam" (1996)
Such a treat! Got me so excited for the 2nd which I also loved for entirely different reasons! Something I’d definitely show the kids sooner than when I’d seen it.
Written by Sam Gall on 08/02/21
CGC Grading: Gem Mint 10.0
"Space Jam boasts technical achievements with its live-action/animation hybrid approach and has some solid humor even if some jokes don't age particularly well." - Danielle Solzman, Solzy at the Movies
"While one can argue it's quality, it's difficult to argue that where it works, it's an absolute slam dunk." - Douglas Davidson, Elements of Madness
"Space Jam is a seamless marvel as Jordan slams and jams in the Looney Tune world. Animation co-directors Bruce Smith and Tony Cervone have orchestrated a dazzingly visual treat." - Duane Byrge, Hollywood Reporter
"There are some hearty laughs, to be sure. Basketball buffs and comedy-lovers will chuckle at the sight of NBA stars reduced to silly stumblebums when the aliens purloin their talent." - David Sterritt, Christian Science Monitor
"Its timing is blessed. Its audience is guaranteed. Its technique is spectacular. And it has two co-superstars almost universally admired and liked." - Michael Wilmington, Chicago Tribune
Official Trailer:
Behind the Scenes:
#SpaceJam #MichaelJordan #HitEmHigh #TheLooneyTunes #LooneyTunes