Airplane II: The Sequel (1982), PG, 1 hr 24 min
Airplane II: The Sequel
Runtime: 84 minutes
Rating: PG
Studio: Paramount Pictures
Franchise: Airplane
Franchise Position: 2
Tagline: “We’re still not sure what it was, but it sure scared us.”
Ratings
My Rating: 7/10
IMDb Rating: 4.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 23%
Metacritic: N/A
Plot Summary
Airplane II: The Sequel continues the absurdist comedy of the original but takes the action into space. When a computer-controlled space shuttle called the Mayflower 1 malfunctions, the same reluctant hero, Ted Striker (Robert Hays), must again overcome his fears to save the day. Filled with similar parody humor, slapstick, and sight gags, the film spoofs sci-fi and disaster tropes but was generally less well received than the original. Despite mixed reviews, it offers moments of fun and extends the franchise’s quirky style into outer space.
Critics Review
Critics largely view Airplane II as a pale shadow of the original’s lightning-fast wit and inventive comedy. The sequel’s space setting allowed for new gags, but many felt the humor was recycled and lacked the freshness that made Airplane! a classic. Some praised moments of clever parody and physical comedy, but the film overall received mixed to negative reviews for its weaker script and less memorable jokes. Fans of the first film might enjoy it for nostalgia, but it generally did not capture the original’s magic or critical acclaim.
Christian Perspective
The film contains mild language, some sexual innuendo, and slapstick violence played for laughs, similar to the first film. While irreverent in tone, it avoids overtly offensive content, making it relatively safe for Christian viewers who appreciate silly comedy and parody. Like its predecessor, it promotes themes of courage and redemption, though with less seriousness or depth.
Family Friendliness
Rated PG, Airplane II contains cartoonish violence, mild language, and occasional sexual humor. It is generally suitable for older children and teens, though parents should be aware of some jokes that may go over younger viewers’ heads or be slightly risqué. The film’s slapstick style and goofy scenarios make it mostly lighthearted and not intense, but it’s best for families comfortable with mild comedic innuendo.
Notable Scenes
The malfunctioning space shuttle launch.
Ted Striker trying to pilot the space shuttle through outer space hazards.
The computer system “Robby” causing havoc aboard the shuttle.
The zero-gravity slapstick moments inside the shuttle.
The chaotic rescue efforts in space.
Notable Quotes
Ted Striker: “Looks like I picked the wrong space mission to quit flying.”
Robby (computer): “I’m sorry, Dave, I’m afraid I can’t do that.” (parody)
Captain: “Brace for impact… in zero gravity!”
Trivia
The film was released two years after Airplane! and reused several cast members.
It was one of the early Hollywood films to spoof science fiction space travel.
The special effects were limited compared to modern standards, relying on practical effects and visual gags.
Despite poor reviews, the film maintains a cult following among fans of slapstick.
Goofs / Continuity Errors
Space shuttle interiors and technology are often inaccurate or anachronistic.
Some scenes show impossible physics for zero-gravity effects.
Background extras sometimes change costumes between shots
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