Animal House 1978
Directed by
John Landis
Made by
Universal Pictures
Plot Summary
Discover the intricate plot of Animal House (1978). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In the autumn of 1962, freshmen Larry Kroger and Kent Dorfman are determined to pledge a fraternity at Faber College. After facing rejection at the elite Omega Theta Pi house party, they decide to explore the nearby Delta Tau Chi house, where Kent’s status as a “legacy” due to his brother Fred’s membership grants them entrance. During this vibrant party, they encounter a motley crew that includes the exuberant John Blutarsky (nicknamed “Bluto”), the charming chapter president Robert Hoover (known as “Hoov”), smooth-talker Eric Stratton (often referred to as “Otter”), the free-spirited motorcyclist Daniel Simpson Day (affectionately called “D-Day”), Duck Donald Schoenstein (known to friends as “Boon”), and Boon’s exasperated girlfriend, Katy. Larry and Kent are welcomed into the Delta family, earning the fraternity names “Pinto” and “Flounder.”
Simultaneously, Dean Vernon Wormer has his sights set on disbanding the Delta fraternity due to their poor academic performance and multiple conduct violations. He enlists Omega’s president, Greg Marmalard, and ROTC Cadet Commander Douglas C. Neidermeyer to scheme against the Deltas. Tensions escalate when a retaliatory prank leads to the accidental death of Neidermeyer’s horse. Unbeknownst to the Deltas, a classic fraternity prank involves Bluto and D-Day taking the answer key to an impending exam, only to fall victim to a switch orchestrated by the Omegas, leading to catastrophic grades for the Deltas.
Undeterred by their academic failure, the Deltas throw a legendary toga party, luring Pinto to swipe supplies from a local supermarket. Here, Pinto encounters Clorette, a young cashier, and invites her to join the festivities. Meanwhile, Otter’s flirtation with an unsuspected older woman reveals her to be Dean Wormer’s inebriated spouse, Marion. As the toga party unfolds with Otis Day and the Knights performing, things take a twisted turn. Pinto’s night with Clorette ends in a moral choice when he decides against an act of violence after she passes out drunk, later discovering her shocking connection to the town mayor.
Amidst the chaos, Wormer initiates a kangaroo court, stripping the Deltas of their charter and fencing off their possessions. In a bid for freedom, Otter, Boon, Pinto, and Flounder embark on a road trip in a borrowed Lincoln, arriving at an all-girls college where Otter fabricates a story to charm dates. Their escapades at a local bar expose them to the fallout of their presence, leading to their frantic retreat.
As tensions rise within the fraternity, Boon finds Katy in a compromising position, igniting further discord. Meanwhile, Wormer, reveling in the Deltas’ unraveling, expels them and notifies the military of their eligibility for service. The Deltas, fueled by rebellion and camaraderie, plan their ultimate revenge during the Homecoming parade, dramatically transforming Fred’s Lincoln into the “Deathmobile.” The parade descends into chaos, culminating with the Deathmobile crashing into the reviewing stand, launching Wormer, Marmalard, and others into disarray.
In the aftermath of this riotous spectacle, the futures of various characters unfold, revealing a mix of triumphs and tragedies, with Bluto surprisingly becoming a U.S. senator, while the Omegas bear the unfortunate consequences of their scheming. The tumultuous journey through college life encapsulates the essence of brotherhood, rebellion, and the inevitable shifts of fate.
Timeline
Track the key events of Animal House (1978) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Fraternity Aspirations Begin
In the autumn of 1962, freshmen Larry Kroger and Kent Dorfman arrive at Faber College with the goal of pledging a fraternity. They encounter their first setback when they are rejected by the elite Omega Theta Pi house party, but their determination pushes them to seek out other opportunities.
Entering Delta Tau Chi
After being rejected from Omega, Larry and Kent explore the raucous Delta Tau Chi house. Kent's legacy status, due to his brother Fred's previous membership, allows them access to a vibrant party where they meet a colorful cast of characters who warmly welcome them.
New Brothers Born
Larry and Kent earn their fraternity nicknames, becoming 'Pinto' and 'Flounder.' They quickly adapt to the jubilant lifestyle of the Deltas, joining in on the fun and forming lasting bonds with their new fraternity brothers.
Dean Wormer's Scheme
Meanwhile, Dean Vernon Wormer plots to disband the Delta fraternity, citing their poor academics and conduct breaches. He seeks assistance from Omega's president, Greg Marmalard, and ROTC Cadet Commander Douglas C. Neidermeyer to take down the Deltas.
Prank Gone Wrong
The Deltas engage in a retaliatory prank against the Omegas that inadvertently leads to the death of Neidermeyer's horse. This incident escalates tensions and forms the basis for the ongoing feud between the two fraternal factions.
Exam Sabotage
In an attempt to maintain their academic standing, Bluto and D-Day steal the answer key for an impending exam. Unfortunately, they fall victim to a switch orchestrated by the Omegas, resulting in dismal grades for the Deltas and further endangering their status.
Legendary Toga Party
Despite their academic troubles, the Deltas throw a famous toga party, which becomes the talk of the campus. Pinto's mischievous adventure at a local supermarket to gather supplies introduces him to Clorette, sparking a memorable connection.
Unexpected Romance
At the toga party, Otter unwittingly flirts with Dean Wormer's wife, Marion, leading to an outrageous night filled with humorous misunderstandings. Meanwhile, Pinto faces a moral dilemma when Clorette passes out drunk, forcing him to reconsider his choices.
Kangaroo Court Decision
Amid growing hostility, Dean Wormer conducts a kangaroo court to strip the Deltas of their charter. This unjust ruling fuels the brothers' determination to fight back against the administration and reclaim their fraternity.
Epic Road Trip
As a final stand against their expulsion, Otter, Boon, Pinto, and Flounder embark on a wild road trip in a borrowed Lincoln. Their adventures include trying to impress girls at an all-girls college, highlighting their humorous mischief and carefree college spirit.
Internal Conflicts Rise
Tensions within the fraternity escalate as Boon discovers Katy in a compromising position. This revelation leads to fights and deeper divisions among the members as they struggle to maintain their unity and focus on revenging against Wormer.
The Deathmobile Plan
Determined to take down Dean Wormer, the Deltas devise a scheme to disrupt the Homecoming parade in a dramatic fashion. They transform Fred's Lincoln into the infamous 'Deathmobile,' which becomes a symbol of their rebellion.
Parade Chaos
During the Homecoming parade, the Deathmobile causes chaos by crashing into the reviewing stand, scattering Wormer, Marmalard, and other officials. This audacious act becomes an iconic moment that encapsulates the spirit of rebellion among the Deltas.
Aftermath and Consequences
Following the parade disaster, the futures of the fraternity brothers unfold in unexpected ways. While Bluto goes on to become a U.S. senator, the Omegas face the fallout of their actions, showcasing the lasting impact of their antics.
The Legacy of Brotherhood
The tumultuous journey through college emphasizes themes of brotherhood, rebellion, and the unpredictable nature of fate. The experiences shape the brothers, leaving a lasting imprint on their lives as they reflect on their time at Faber College.
Characters
Meet the characters that bring Animal House (1978) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Larry Kroger
Larry Kroger, known as 'Pinto', embodies the eager and optimistic freshman eager to join the fraternity culture. His adventures reflect a blend of innocence and naivety, navigating the wild lifestyle of the Delta fraternity. Throughout the film, he grapples with moral decisions that shape his character's growth.
Kent Dorfman
Kent Dorfman, also known as 'Flounder', is characterized by his awkwardness and loyalty to his friends. Despite his lack of confidence, he embraces the fraternity life with enthusiasm. His journey showcases the comedic side of college life, while also shedding light on the importance of friendship.
John Blutarsky
John Blutarsky, nicknamed 'Bluto', is the epitome of reckless fun and carefree living. His larger-than-life personality and trademark antics drive much of the film's humor. Bluto's audacity and charm make him a natural leader among the Deltas, embodying the spirit of rebellion.
Robert Hoover
Robert Hoover, affectionately known as 'Hoov', serves as the level-headed president of the Delta fraternity. He navigates the chaotic environment, trying to maintain order amidst the pranks and wild parties. Hoov represents the balance between fun and responsibility within the fraternity.
Daniel Simpson Day
Daniel, or 'D-Day', is the thrill-seeking motorcycle enthusiast in the fraternity. His adventurous spirit and love for excitement often lead to comical situations on campus. D-Day's carefree attitude epitomizes the playful nature of college life.
Setting
Uncover the settings of Animal House (1978), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
Autumn 1962
The movie is set in the autumn of 1962, a time of cultural upheaval and change in America, especially on college campuses. This era saw the rise of counterculture, influencing students' behavior and attitudes. The carefree nature of college life during this time is mirrored in the comedic and rebellious spirit of the characters.
Location
Faber College, Local Supermarket, All-Girls College
Faber College is a vibrant institution where the film's events unfold, known for its spirited fraternity culture. The college becomes a backdrop for the intense rivalry and the comical situations faced by its students. Nearby establishments like the local supermarket and an all-girls college provide settings for key encounters and misadventures that shape the characters' escapades.
Themes
Explore the core themes of Animal House (1978). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Brotherhood
Brotherhood is central to the story, emphasizing the bonds formed between the fraternity brothers. Their shared experiences, both humorous and challenging, foster a sense of unity that defines their college life. This theme is highlighted through the characters' loyalty and support for one another despite the chaos around them.
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Rebellion
Rebellion permeates the plot as the fraternity challenges authority and societal norms. Their outrageous pranks and parties symbolize a youthful defiance against restrictions imposed by the college administration. This theme resonates with the characters' struggles for freedom and expression in a constrained environment.
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Consequences
The theme of consequences runs parallel to the comedic elements, showcasing the outcomes of the characters' reckless actions. Their pranks lead to unexpected repercussions, illustrating the clash between fun and responsibility. This theme underscores the impact of choices made during their formative college years.
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