Virgin Alarm

If Mel Gibson made Spaceballs today, he’d be up to his tequila-hole in defamation lawsuits. But in 1987 (before political correctness exploded), Mel Brooks was given a little more leeway to take pot shots at the chosen people. And while the movie is filled with stereotypical jabs at the "Druish," it's science-fiction nerds, for the most part, who are the butt of the joke. With a powerhouse A-list cast including Jim J. Bullock, Dom DeLuise, Dick Van Patten, Joan Rivers and Daphne Zuniga, Spaceballs pays homage to the original Star Wars trilogy and all its merchandising glory. Rick Moranis’ gripping performance as "Dark Helmet" is memorable, but the late John Candy steals the show as "Barf," a half-man, half-dog creature known as a Mog (he's his own best friend!). Plus the film reunites John Hurt with a certain parasitic co-star for whom he holds a special place in his heart (or chest cavity, anyway). Prepare your ship for ludicrous speed and head to the Inwood this weekend. May the Schwartz be with you. Catch Spaceballs at midnight Friday and Saturday at the Inwood Theatre, 5458 W. Lovers Lane. Tickets are $8.50. Call 214-764-9106.
Fri., Dec. 29; Sat., Dec. 30