Coneheads! - Hilarious Extraterrestrial Shenanigans and an Outstanding Cast Led by Dan Aykroyd!
The year was 1993, a time of grunge music, dial-up internet, and the rise of CGI in films. While many remember this era for blockbusters like “Jurassic Park” or " Schindler’s List," there exists a delightful gem hidden among the mainstream releases: “Coneheads.” This comedic masterpiece, directed by Steve Barron and based on a recurring “Saturday Night Live” sketch, follows the hilarious misadventures of a family of cone-headed aliens who crash-land in suburban New Jersey.
What makes “Coneheads” truly shine is its brilliant cast led by the iconic Dan Aykroyd as Beldar Conehead, the stoic and hilariously literal father figure. Jane Curtin delivers side-splitting performances as Prymaat, Beldar’s equally pragmatic wife. Their teenage daughter Connie (played by Michelle Burke) adds a youthful and relatable element to the family dynamics.
Beyond the core cast, “Coneheads” boasts a fantastic supporting lineup:
Actor | Role | Memorable Quote |
---|---|---|
Robert Goulet | Himself | “My dear, you are not from around here.” |
Christopher Walken | Ron, the neighbor | “I don’t care what you say. I’m calling the cops!” |
The film’s humor stems primarily from its absurd premise: an alien family trying to blend into human society while maintaining their strange customs and unwavering devotion to their home planet, Remulak. The Coneheads speak in a distinctive monotone, struggle with mundane tasks like driving or eating pizza, and face constant suspicion from their neighbors due to their unconventional appearance.
“Coneheads” cleverly satirizes American suburban life through the eyes of these hilariously clueless aliens. They navigate social norms, encounter bureaucratic nightmares, and even attempt to participate in a high school football game—all with predictably disastrous yet incredibly funny results.
The film’s special effects are surprisingly good for its time. The Coneheads’ distinct conical heads are convincingly realized, and the alien world of Remulak is depicted through vivid dream sequences.
While “Coneheads” may not be a cinematic masterpiece in the traditional sense, it offers a refreshing and genuinely funny take on the sci-fi comedy genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its memorable characters, witty writing, and willingness to embrace sheer absurdity.
Here are some additional reasons why “Coneheads” is worth watching:
-
Nostalgia factor: For those who grew up in the 1990s, “Coneheads” offers a delightful trip down memory lane.
-
Great for family viewing: While containing some mild adult humor, the film’s overall tone is lighthearted and appropriate for audiences of all ages.
-
Dan Aykroyd at his comedic best: This film showcases Aykroyd’s unique brand of deadpan humor, which he perfected during his “Saturday Night Live” years.
If you’re looking for a fun and entertaining escape that doesn’t take itself too seriously, “Coneheads” is the perfect choice! Just be prepared to laugh (a lot) and maybe even yearn for a trip to Remulak yourself.