Stripes, released in theaters on June 26, 1981, is a riotous, anarchic, and endlessly quotable military farce that perfectly showcases the comedic genius of its lead cast. Starring Bill Murray and Harold Ramis, the film is a gloriously irresponsible romp that finds humor in the most unlikely of places and solidifies its place as a classic 80s comedy.
The story introduces John Winger (Murray), a slacker whose life is falling apart: he’s lost his job, his girlfriend has dumped him, and he feels utterly directionless. Convinced that the only way to find purpose is to join the Army, he convinces his best friend Russell Ziskey (Ramis) to enlist with him. Their naive optimism quickly crashes against the harsh realities of basic training, led by the perpetually exasperated Sergeant Hulka (Warren Oates).
Despite their complete incompetence and a general disdain for authority, Winger and Ziskey, along with their motley platoon (including the lovable oaf Ox, played by John Candy, and the earnest Elmo, played by Judge Reinhold), somehow manage to muddle through. Their antics eventually lead them on an unexpected assignment to Italy, where their recklessness inadvertently throws them into a high-stakes international incident.
Murray is in peak form as Winger, delivering his signature blend of cynical charm, sarcastic wit, and an uncanny ability to improvise hilarious dialogue. He’s the perfect anti-establishment hero.
Ramis, as Russell, provides the more grounded, intellectual, and often bewildered foil to Winger’s madness. Their comedic chemistry is the engine of the film, full of spontaneous banter and genuine camaraderie.
Oates delivers a memorable performance as the no-nonsense Sergeant Hulka, whose increasingly strained patience provides endless laughs.
Candy is absolutely fantastic as Ox, bringing a lovable goofiness and a surprising sweetness to the character.
Sean Young and P.J. Soles shine as member of the military police who Winger and Ziskey befriend.
John Larroquette is smarmily excellent as Captain Stillman, their uptight superior. Judge Reinhold also has a fun role as the dim-witted but good-hearted Elmo.
Director Ivan Reitman orchestrates the comedic chaos with a confident hand. The film’s humor is a brilliant mix of situational comedy, character-driven gags, and sharp, often improvised, dialogue. The basic training sequences are particularly iconic, filled with memorable routines and physical comedy.
While the plot takes a somewhat outlandish turn in the third act, the film’s strength lies in its commitment to its characters and their relentless pursuit of fun, even in a highly disciplined environment. The film’s irreverent spirit perfectly captures the counter-cultural leanings of its era.
Bill Murray and Warren Oates in Stripes (Photo/Columbia Pictures)
Reception for Stripes
Stripes grossed $6.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing fourth at the box office behind Superman II ($10.8 million), The Cannonball Run ($8.2 million) and For Your Eyes Only ($6.8 million).
Stripes would gross $85.7 million in its theatrical run and finishing behind Superman II ($108.2 million) as the No. 2 film at the box office in 1981.
Legacy
Stripes is a classic military comedy that still holds up today, proving that laughter is indeed the best weapon. It’s a testament to the comedic genius of Murray and Ramis, and a film that embraces absurdity with open arms.
