Blues Brothers: A Tour of Iconic Movie Locations
Alright, guys, buckle up and let's take a spin through the windy city, as we explore the Blues Brothers movie locations. This classic 1980 musical comedy, starring Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi, is a cinematic love letter to Chicago, and we're about to revisit some of its most iconic filming locations. So, grab your shades and your harmonica, and let's get started! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and blues brothers movie locations.
The Church: St. Mary of the Angels
We can't talk about the Blues Brothers movie locations without starting at the church where it all began. The brothers' musical journey kicked off at the St. Mary of the Angels church in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood. This stunning, albeit abandoned, church served as the backdrop for the opening scene where Jake Blues (John Belushi) is released from prison and reunites with his brother, Elwood (Dan Aykroyd).
!St. Mary of the Angels Church
St. Mary of the Angels Church, one of the most iconic Blues Brothers movie locations.
The Police Station: Cook County Jail
Speaking of Jake's release from prison, the Cook County Jail in Chicago played a significant role in the film. In reality, it's one of the largest single-site jails in the United States, but in the movie, it served as the police station where Jake was being held. The jail's exterior was used for the scene where Elwood arrives with his new car to pick up Jake.
Cook County Jail, one of the most recognizable Blues Brothers movie locations.
The Blues Bar: Murphy's Bleachers
Now, let's talk about the Blues Brothers' bar. The iconic scene where the brothers perform "Minnie the Moocher" was filmed at Murphy's Bleachers, a bar located near Wrigley Field in Chicago. This classic Irish pub has been a Chicago institution since 1936 and was the perfect setting for the brothers' lively performance.
Murphy's Bleachers, a must-visit for any Blues Brothers fan.
The Car Chase: Lower Wacker Drive
No list of Blues Brothers movie locations would be complete without mentioning the epic car chase scene. The brothers' iconic Bluesmobile, a modified 1974 Dodge Monaco police car, tears through the streets of Chicago in one of the most memorable chase scenes in cinema history. Much of this scene was filmed on Lower Wacker Drive, a multi-level roadway beneath Chicago's downtown streets.
Lower Wacker Drive, the setting for the Blues Brothers' legendary car chase.
The Final Showdown: The Palace Hotel Ballroom
The film's climactic scene takes place at the Palace Hotel Ballroom in South Bend, Indiana. The brothers, along with a massive backup band, perform a rousing rendition of "Everybody Needs Somebody to Love" in an attempt to raise money for the church. The Palace Hotel Ballroom was the perfect setting for this epic musical number, with its grand stage and ornate decor.
The Palace Hotel Ballroom, the setting for the Blues Brothers' final showdown.
The Bridge Jump: 95th Street Bridge
Finally, we can't forget the daring bridge jump scene. In a desperate attempt to evade the police, the Bluesmobile takes a leap of faith off the 95th Street Bridge in Chicago. In reality, this scene was filmed using a combination of practical effects and model work, but the bridge itself is very much real.
The 95th Street Bridge, the site of the Blues Brothers' daring leap.
So there you have it, guys – a whirlwind tour of some of the most iconic Blues Brothers movie locations. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just a casual movie buff, visiting these locations is a must-do for anyone interested in the history of cinema and the city of Chicago. Until next time, keep on truckin' and always remember: "It's 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark out, and we're wearing sunglasses."