Finally, following decades of anticipation and jests, the long-awaited sequel to Mel Brooks’ classic comedy spoof “Spaceballs” is on its way. Originally hinted at with the joke about “Spaceballs II: The Search for More Money,” the second Spaceballs movie will hit theaters in summer 2027, marking the original’s 40th anniversary. To our delight, Mel Brooks himself, now 98 years old, will reprise his role as Yogurt, his Yoda-inspired character from the first film. The announcement trailer was quite amusing, satirizing our never-ending franchise obsession, reminding us that “there’s only ever been one Spaceballs.” However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t entirely accurate. Back in 2008, a short-lived animated series titled “Spaceballs: The Animated Series” was produced. You might not have even known about its existence, but the theme tune, penned by Mel Brooks himself, is available for your listening pleasure here.
Initially, just 13 episodes of the animated series titled “Spaceballs” were broadcasted, and it was a relatively low-budget production, characterized by flash animation. The channel that initially aired it was G4, which no longer exists as a digital network. In the revamped version, many of the original cast members such as Daphne Zuniga, Joan Rivers, and Dom DeLuise returned. However, Bill Pullman, who had become quite famous by then, did not reprise his role as Lone Starr. Instead, Rino Romano from “The Batman” took over the character. Since John Candy had passed away, Tino Insana filled in for Barf. Dee Bradley Baker, known for his work on “The Clone Wars“, replaced Rick Moranis as Dark Helmet. This means that the animated “Spaceballs” has a tangible link to the actual “Star Wars” series.
The series “Spaceballs: The Animated Series” borrowed heavily from the humor found in popular movies of the day, such as “Not Another Teen Movie,” “Disaster Movie,” “Superhero Movie,” and the infamous “Meet the Spartans.” Do you recall those disasters? Indeed, “Spaceballs: The Animated Series” ventured into similar territory. What makes the original “Spaceballs” still entertaining is that its references to classic “Star Wars” films remain fresh and funny. One can only hope that the script for “Spaceballs II” will be superior to the animated show, as comedy legend Rick Moranis has returned from retirement for it – unlike providing voice work for the cartoon. In essence, “Spaceballs: The Animated Series” serves as a valuable lesson for “Spaceballs II” director Josh Greenbaum on what not to emulate.
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2025-06-13 21:02