Watch The Spirit of '76

The movie The Spirit of '76 is a comedic science-fiction film from 1990 that brings together music, culture, and time travel. Directed and produced by Lucas Reiner, the film stars Mark Mothersbaugh, Gerald Casale, and Carl Reiner in leading roles. The plot of the movie revolves around three musicians - Nick (Mothersbaugh), Kirby (Casale), and Ferguson (Reiner) - who are transported from the year 2176 to 1776, just a day before the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The three musicians are part of a group called the "Heirs of the Enlightenment," a society devoted to preserving the ideals of the American Revolution.

As they travel back in time, the musicians are confused and disoriented by the new world they find themselves in. They struggle to adjust to the customs and norms of the 18th century, often finding themselves in awkward and humorous situations. However, their mission is clear: to make sure that the signing of the Declaration of Independence goes off without a hitch.

Along the way, the trio meets a cast of quirky characters, including George Washington, Betsy Ross, and Thomas Jefferson. They also encounter a villainous British officer named Lord Cornwallis, who is determined to prevent the signing of the Declaration of Independence and crush the fledgling American rebellion.

Despite the challenges they face, Nick, Kirby, and Ferguson remain true to their mission and try to keep history on track. As the day of the signing approaches, tensions rise and the fate of America hangs in the balance. Will the musicians be successful in their mission, or will they be stranded in the past forever?

The Spirit of '76 is a hilarious and irreverent take on American history, blending humor and satire with historical accuracy. The film cleverly parodies 1980s culture while also paying homage to the ideals of the American Revolution. The music, composed by Mothersbaugh and Casale, is a highlight of the film, featuring catchy, synth-driven tunes that perfectly capture the spirit of the era.

Mark Mothersbaugh, best known as a founding member of the band Devo, delivers a standout performance as the lovable but clueless Nick. Gerald Casale, also a Devo member, shines as the acerbic and sarcastic Kirby, and Carl Reiner brings his comedic genius to the role of the befuddled Ferguson. The supporting cast is also excellent, with memorable performances from Olivia d'Abo, Kevin McCarthy, and David Cassidy.

Overall, The Spirit of '76 is a fun and entertaining film that celebrates American history and pop culture. It's a must-see for fans of 80s music and movies, as well as anyone who loves a good time travel story. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a good laugh, this film is sure to deliver.

The Spirit of '76 is a 1990 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.