The 1978 film Animal House is a classic comedy that has become a staple of American cinema. Directed by John Landis and written by Harold Ramis, Douglas Kenney, and Chris Miller, the movie follows the misadventures of a group of misfits at the fictional Faber College. The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including John Belushi, Tim Matheson, Peter Riegert, Tom Hulce, Stephen Furst, and Karen Allen, among others.
Primary Cast and Characters

The primary cast of Animal House includes a talented group of actors who brought the film’s quirky characters to life. John Belushi, a member of the Saturday Night Live cast at the time, played the iconic role of John Blutarsky, also known as Bluto. Tim Matheson portrayed Eric “Otter” Stratton, the charming and laid-back president of the Delta Tau Chi fraternity. Peter Riegert played the role of Donald “Boon” Schoenstein, a fun-loving and eccentric member of the fraternity.
Supporting Cast and Notable Performances
The supporting cast of Animal House includes a number of talented actors who delivered memorable performances. Tom Hulce played the role of Lawrence “Pinto” Kroger, a naive and awkward freshman who becomes embroiled in the fraternity’s antics. Stephen Furst portrayed Kent “Flounder” Dorfman, a nerdy and enthusiastic member of the fraternity. Karen Allen played the role of Katy, a beautiful and charming student who becomes the object of affection for several of the film’s characters.
Actor | Character |
---|---|
John Belushi | John Blutarsky (Bluto) |
Tim Matheson | Eric "Otter" Stratton |
Peter Riegert | Donald "Boon" Schoenstein |
Tom Hulce | Lawrence "Pinto" Kroger |
Stephen Furst | Kent "Flounder" Dorfman |
Karen Allen | Katy |

Key Points
- The primary cast of Animal House includes John Belushi, Tim Matheson, Peter Riegert, Tom Hulce, Stephen Furst, and Karen Allen.
- The film's supporting cast includes a number of talented actors who delivered memorable performances.
- The cast's chemistry and camaraderie on screen helped to bring the film's quirky characters to life and made the movie a classic of American comedy.
- Animal House was directed by John Landis and written by Harold Ramis, Douglas Kenney, and Chris Miller.
- The film follows the misadventures of a group of misfits at the fictional Faber College.
Legacy and Impact of Animal House

Animal House has had a lasting impact on American comedy and popular culture. The film’s success can be attributed to its talented ensemble cast, witty screenplay, and hilarious performances. The movie’s influence can be seen in a number of subsequent comedies, including Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and Old School. Animal House has also become a cultural touchstone, with references to the film appearing in everything from music to television shows.
Behind-the-Scenes and Production
The production of Animal House was marked by a number of challenges and controversies. The film’s script was written by Harold Ramis, Douglas Kenney, and Chris Miller, who drew inspiration from their own college experiences. The film was shot on location at the University of Oregon and featured a number of improvisational performances from the cast. Despite the challenges, the film’s cast and crew delivered a hilarious and iconic comedy that has stood the test of time.
What is the plot of Animal House?
+Animal House follows the misadventures of a group of misfits at the fictional Faber College. The film centers around the Delta Tau Chi fraternity, which is composed of a group of eccentric and fun-loving students who are determined to have a good time.
Who are the main characters in Animal House?
+The main characters in Animal House include John Blutarsky (Bluto), played by John Belushi, Eric "Otter" Stratton, played by Tim Matheson, and Donald "Boon" Schoenstein, played by Peter Riegert. Other notable characters include Lawrence "Pinto" Kroger, played by Tom Hulce, and Kent "Flounder" Dorfman, played by Stephen Furst.
What is the significance of Animal House in American comedy?
+Animal House is considered a classic of American comedy and has had a lasting impact on the genre. The film's success can be attributed to its talented ensemble cast, witty screenplay, and hilarious performances. The movie's influence can be seen in a number of subsequent comedies, including Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and Old School.
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