Airplane!
An ex-fighter pilot forced to take over the controls of an airliner when the flight crew succumbs to food poisoning.
Critics Sentiment
Dr Rumack delivers his famous Shirley line to Ted
Ted Striker introduced with his pathological drinking problem
The film builds from solid opening gags to its comedic peak with Leslie Nielsen's iconic 'Shirley' line, representing a 1.7 point surge in audience delight.
Airplane! maintains consistently high audience satisfaction throughout, building from strong opening absurdist humor to peak comedic moments in the middle act. The film sustains its momentum through the climax with only minor dips, reflecting reviewers' praise for its relentless joke density and inspired performances. Critics consistently noted the film's ability to layer visual gags, wordplay, and parody elements without losing comedic steam.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 73
Robert Hays
Ted Striker
Julie Hagerty
Elaine Dickinson
Leslie Nielsen
Dr. Rumack
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Roger Murdock
Lloyd Bridges
Steve McCroskey
Peter Graves
Capt. Clarence Oveur
Robert Stack
Captain Rex Kramer
Lorna Patterson
Randy
Jill Whelan
Lisa Davis
Ann Nelson
Hanging Lady
Jim Abrahams
Religious Zealot #6
Jonathan Banks
Gunderson
Stephen Stucker
Johnny Henshaw-Jacobs
Frank Ashmore
Victor Basta
Craig Berenson
Paul Carey
Barbara Billingsley
Jive Lady
Lee Bryant
Mrs. Hammen
Joyce Bulifant
Mrs. Davis
Mae E. Campbell
Security Lady
Ethel Merman
Lieutenant Hurwitz
Crew
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