A classic for '90s kids, especially those who enjoyed sports, Space Jam is remembered for giving us MJ, the greatest basketball player ever, in a world with cartoons. Returning to Space Jam as an adult, however, it isn't the psychedelic journey of professional athletes traveling through space with animated animals that stands out, but the adult jokes scattered throughout the film. Revist the most inappropriate moments in this children's classic.
Adult Jokes You Never Noticed in Space Jam,
Taking a Shot at Disney
During a scene in which Daffy and Bugs chat while walking the golf course, Bugs says “What kind of Mickey Mouse organization would call themselves The Ducks?”
Here, Space Jam throws shade on not only Disney, but also the University of Oregon, the mascot of which is a duck, and which school had a contract with Disney at the time of the film's release. As an animated film, Space Jam was direct competition for Disney, Well done, but a kid likely wouldn’t have understood the full joke.
The Race Joke
On the golf course, Bill Murray and Michael Jordan have a conversation about Larry Bird that goes as follows:
Bill Murray: Do you think I have a shot in the NBA?
Michael Jordan: No.
Bill Murray: Is it because I’m white?
Michael Jordan: Larry Bird is white.
Bill Murray: Larry isn’t white, he’s clear.
Michael Jordan: True.
Patrick Ewing’s Sex Life
After losing their powers, the players in Space Jam see a psychiatrist, who asks Patrick Ewing if there are “any other areas aside from basketball that you find yourself…unable to perform?” Ewing is appalled, angry the doc's even asking. He quickly replies “No!”
The Barkley and Madonna Dating Joke
In 1993, there were rumors Charles Barkley and Madonna were dating. Reports of the relationship caused a tabloid frenzy, despite being denied by the two. Barkley, who was, and still is, married, said people would constantly bother his family, playing Madonna songs around them. In the movie, there’s a scene in which Barkley’s praying for his talents to come back. He promises the Almighty he won’t go out with Madonna again in exchange for his basketball abilities.
The 2001: A Space Odyssey Nod
The monolith from 2001: A Space Odyssey can be seen briefly during a sequence showing Moron Mountain. Look into space, beyond the mountain - it's clearly visible. Surely not a reference children notice.
The Pulp Fiction Reference
In one scene, Elmer Fudd and Yosemite Sam dress in black suits with white shirts, looking like Jules Winnfield (Sam Jackson) and Vincent Vega (John Travolta) in Pulp Fiction. They shoot a Monstar in the mouth, shattering its teeth, in a small tribute to the very adult movie, Pulp Fiction.
Daffy Duck’s Crotch Is Branded
In one scene, Daffy Duck lifts his bottom to expose the Warner Brothers logo stamped on his nether regions. Pretty bold stuff there, considering it seems like there are better options for ad placement.
Bugs Bunny’s Metaphorical Erection
When Bugs meets Lola, she shows off her impressive basketball skills, schooling him on the court. Afterward, she leans in and tells him, “Don’t ever call me ‘doll." Bugs becomes straight and stiff, clearly experiencing full body arousal.