Space Jam: Why You Need To Revisit The Original Before Space Jam: A New Legacy

1990s film nostalgia is something that doesn’t get mentioned nearly as much as it should. During the 1990s we were treated with some of the best films, cinema had to offer, with: ‘Jurassic Park’, ‘Saving Private Ryan’, ‘Speed’, ‘The Matrix’ and ‘Schindler’s List’ just to name a few. But with so many classics, it’s easy to forget some as well, like 1993s ‘Space Jam’. The film was filled with great popular references, a likeable spots superstar with Michael Jordan and of course The Looney Tunes. I grew up on ‘The Looney Tunes’. Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck were a huge part of my childhood and have remained a main-state in my popular culture diet. In 2021, the Tune Squad are headed back to the big screen, this time with their new recruit.  NBA superstar Lebron James. So, with the film entering popular culture once again, it’s time to explore the first film and why you should re-visit it before ‘Space Jam: The New Legacy’.

One of the most enjoyable facts of the first film is the blend of both CGI and live action. Seeing Michael Jordan partake in the ‘Space Jam’ in a cartoon world is very entertaining. Jordan makes the most of his performance, with entertaining interactions with the Tunes. Bugs and Jordan are fantastic on screen together and still to this day, their banter and interactions are some of the more enjoyable parts of the film. The early CGI work is also fantastic. I love the look of the Looney Tunes. They retain their classic, original design but with updated animation. It looks fantastic and I think still holds up to this day. I love it.

The basketball game itself is still very entertaining. I love the game, the Monstars prove to be a worth opponent for the Tune Squad, with the characters stealing the talent of some of the best basketball players of the decade (and in my opinion of all time). Including: Charles Barkley, Shawn Bradley, Patrick Ewing, Larry Johnson and Muggsy Bogues. Seeing the characters all take the court as well, on a truly cartoon version of the game is hilarious. Michael Jordan’s game winning 3 pointer, where he extended his arm to the basket is pure brilliance. The 10 second appearance by Bill Murray is iconic, nearly winning MVP from his short stint on the court. Each of the squad pull their weight on the court and it’s brilliant. 

The music is a great deal of fun as well. The soundtrack includes music from Seal with ‘Fly Like An Eagle’, Coolio’s ‘The Winner’, R Kelly’s ‘I Believe I Can Fly’ and of course, the iconic, catchy theme ‘Space Jam’ by Quad City’s DJ. The music plays a big part in the film for me. I love the the way it’s incorporated into the film and I also think it plays a massive part in its nostalgia for me. The films theme is of course the best track on the soundtrack and I think even if you were not as familiar with the film, you would still be able to site the lyrics. It’s great and I can’t wait to see what new iterations of the music feature in the new film. 

‘Space Jam’ is a classic in it’s own right. Whilst it may not live up to the iconic films of the decade it will always hold a special place in my heart. Thanks to Roadshow, you can relive the film in all its glory, available on 4K UHD from July 7. As a fan I cannot wait to add it to my collection and I urge anyone who loved the film or anyone who has not seen the film to be sure to pick it up. 

Buy Everything Space Jam (Original & New) Here

Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here