June 24: Spaceballs (1987)

Milestone Years

• 40th Anniversary: June 24, 2027
• 50th Anniversary: June 24, 2037
• 75th Anniversary: June 24, 2062

Inspiration Behind the Movie

Mel Brooks created Spaceballs as a parody of the Star Wars franchise, drawing humor from sci-fi tropes and blockbuster merchandising. He aimed to lampoon the genre while celebrating its popularity. Though not directly based on real events, the film reflects the cultural moment of 1980s space opera mania and Brooks’ signature comedic style.

You Might Not Know

• George Lucas approved the film on the condition that no merchandise be made, leading to a major plot joke about merchandising.
• Mel Brooks plays two roles: President Skroob and Yogurt, parodying both political leaders and Yoda.
• The film’s opening crawl mimics Star Wars but with absurd humor and gags about budgets.
• Rick Moranis’ Dark Helmet costume included comically oversized headgear he could barely see through.
• Though initially a modest hit, it became a cult classic through home video and fan appreciation.

Food Ideas

• “Pizza the Hutt” deep-dish pizza
• Lone Starr Space Dogs (gourmet hot dogs)
• Dark Helmet chocolate milkshakes
• Yogurt’s Gold Popcorn (caramel popcorn with edible glitter)
• Spaceballs-themed sugar cookies shaped like spaceships and helmets

Ways to Celebrate

• Host a sci-fi parody movie night with costumes
• Create your own Spaceballs trivia game
• Screen the movie outdoors under the stars
• Craft Dark Helmet props and pose for photos
• Make spoof trailers for your own space parodies

Filming Locations

Spaceballs was filmed primarily in California, with notable locations including the sprawling desert scenes shot in Yuma, Arizona, standing in for the alien planet. The film also used sound stages in Hollywood for elaborate spaceship interiors and visual gags. The desert scenes parody the original Star Wars’ Tatooine setting with comedic flair.