Fans Never Noticed These Hidden Things About Animal House

Animal House, the iconic 1978 comedy directed by John Landis, has become a staple of American pop culture. Known for its outrageous humor, wild college antics, and unforgettable characters, the film continues to entertain generations of fans. But beyond the outrageous pranks and memorable quotes, there are a number of hidden details and subtle moments that even the most dedicated fans may have missed. Here are a few things that flew under the radar when watching Animal House:

1. The Subtle Political Commentary

While Animal House is mainly known for its comedy and college mischief, it also subtly critiques the American social and political landscape of the time. Set in the early 1960s, the film’s depiction of a corrupt and uptight administration at Faber College mirrors the political tensions of the post-Vietnam War era. The rivalry between the Delta Tau Chi fraternity and the college dean reflects a clash between rebellious youth and authoritarian figures, a theme that resonates with the youth counterculture movements of the 1960s.

2. The Faded Greek Lettering on the Fraternity House

If you take a close look at the Delta Tau Chi fraternity house, you’ll notice that the Greek letters on the building appear somewhat worn and faded. This subtle detail reflects the group’s declining status within the college. It’s a small, but telling, way to emphasize the underdog nature of the fraternity and how they struggle to maintain their rebellious spirit in the face of authority.

3. The Unspoken Bond Between John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd

The chemistry between John Belushi (Bluto) and Dan Aykroyd (Elwood) is evident throughout Animal House, but it’s worth noting that their bond extends beyond the screen. The two comedic powerhouses would go on to form one of the most iconic duos in comedy history, The Blues Brothers. Fans who look back at their interactions in Animal House might pick up on the early seeds of that future collaboration.

4. Real College Students Played Extras

One fun fact that many fans may not know is that many of the extras in Animal House were actual college students at the time. Director John Landis chose to cast real students in scenes like the toga party and other crowd scenes to give the film an authentic college atmosphere. Their natural energy and reactions helped to bring the chaotic party scenes to life, adding an extra layer of realism to the wild antics.

5. The Importance of Music Choices

The soundtrack of Animal House is another element that fans often overlook. Featuring iconic tunes like Shout and Louie Louie, the music serves as more than just background noise—it reflects the cultural shift of the 1960s. These songs became anthems for the counterculture, and their inclusion in the film helps ground the story in the larger social context of the time. The music enhances the comedic chaos and underlines the rebellious spirit of the characters.

6. The Star Wars Connection

For diehard Star Wars fans, Animal House has a surprising connection to the legendary space opera. A young actor by the name of Kevin Bacon makes an early appearance as one of the fraternity brothers. Bacon’s role as Chip Diller might seem trivial at first, but many don’t realize that he would later go on to have a substantial career, including starring in Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens in a small but memorable role.

7. The 60s Fashion

While the film was released in 1978, Animal House is set in the 1960s, and the costume designers took great care in making sure the wardrobe reflected the era accurately. The fashion choices, especially among the fraternity members, evoke a sense of youthful rebellion, with blazers, letterman jackets, and polo shirts. The vintage clothing also adds a layer of authenticity to the setting, transporting viewers back to a time when the clash between counterculture and the establishment was at its peak.

8. The Impact of the Toga Party Scene

The toga party in Animal House is one of the film’s most famous and over-the-top moments. While many fans focus on the chaos of the party itself, fewer notice the significance of the toga as a symbol. The toga, a garment traditionally associated with ancient Roman citizens, represents both rebellion and unity in the film. The act of wearing a toga is a collective declaration of defiance against authority, and it becomes a bonding ritual for the fraternity brothers and their guests.

Conclusion

Animal House is filled with subtle details and hidden gems that enhance the viewing experience for those who are paying attention. From its political undertones to its iconic soundtrack, there’s much more to discover beyond the wild antics and slapstick humor. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, revisiting Animal House with a sharper eye will undoubtedly reveal even more hidden treasures that you never noticed before.