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Jamie Lee Curtis revisits her aerobics routine from the 1985 film Perfect. The iconic movie moment saw her play Jessie, a fitness instructor who becomes involved with Los Angeles reporter Adam, portrayed by John Travolta, when he sets out to write a story about gym culture. The movie, written and directed by James Bridges, became infamous for its high-energy aerobics scenes, which captured the fitness craze of the '80s.
Curtis appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon to recreate her character's iconic aerobics scene, complete with exaggerated movements. Her routine took on a new humorous perspective with the added bonus of comedic gags, such as a pizza delivery, a surgery, and a champagne tower pour. Fallon took Travolta's place in this revived take, adding to the silliness of the parody. Check out the video below:
What This Means for Jamie Lee Curtis’ Longstanding Career
A Humorous Recreation Of One Of Her Earliest Films
Curtis’ recreation of the aerobics scene from Perfect demonstrates her ability to engage with her past work in an amusing way. While the film is often remembered for the aerobics craze, Curtis’ playful take on the vivacious scene shows her comfort with the role. Perfect was not a defining film in her career, but it served as a fun piece of her overall filmography. The Halloween star's humorous approach shows her self-awareness, evincing that Curtis can revisit and enjoy past performances without taking herself too seriously.
Also, this playful nod to Perfect highlights Curtis’ continued adaptability as an actor. Over the years, she has tackled a wide range of roles, from horror to comedy, and her ability to switch between genres has helped maintain her standing in Hollywood. Curtis’ career took a turn after Perfect, with notable roles as a Scream Queen in The Fog, Prom Night, and Terror Train, and in comedies like Freaky Friday and her notorious role in Trading Places. As she embraced more diverse roles, Curtis also found success as a children's author and LGBTQ+ advocate, expanding her influence beyond the screen.
Our Take On Jamie Lee Curtis’ Aerobic Throwback
Her New Take On Perfect's Most Iconic Scene Is A Testament To Her Legacy
Curtis’ playful aerobics routine from Perfect is a prime example of her ability to balance nostalgia with modern humor. It reflects her comfort in revisiting her earlier roles while reinforcing her status as a timeless and versatile actress. Curtis’ decision to recreate a moment from her past, rather than distance herself from it, shows her continued ability to adapt. This lighthearted Perfect parody adds to her ever-growing legacy, proving that Curtis remains as relevant as ever in Hollywood.
Source: The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
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Perfect is a drama film released in 1985, directed by James Bridges. The movie stars John Travolta as a reporter investigating the health and fitness industry and Jamie Lee Curtis as an aerobics instructor. Their paths cross during his assignment, leading to unexpected developments in their professional and personal lives.
Release Date May 15, 1985
Runtime 115 minutes
Character(s) Jessie Wilson , Adam Lawrence , Frankie , Sally , Linda , Roger , Mark Roth , Charlie , Joe McKenzie , Melody , Dita , Peckerman , Judge , Government Prosecutor , City News Receptionist , Grieving Woman , City News Editor , Maitre D' in New York , Carly Simon's Friend , Mrs. McKenzie , Mary , Nanette
Director James Bridges
Producers Kim Kurumada
Writers Aaron Latham
English (US) ·