“Freaky Friday” is a family comedy film released in 1976 by Walt Disney Productions. The movie was directed by Gary Nelson and is based on the 1972 novel of the same name written by Mary Rodgers.
The story revolves around a mother and daughter, Ellen Andrews (played by Barbara Harris) and Annabel Andrews (played by Jodie Foster). They have a strained relationship and often argue, wishing they could understand each other better.
One Friday the 13th, they visit a mysterious Chinese restaurant where they both inadvertently pick up fortune cookies. Afterward, they discover that their souls have switched bodies. Ellen’s soul is now in Annabel’s body, and Annabel’s soul is in Ellen’s body.
As a result of this body switch, they must navigate each other’s lives and deal with the challenges that come with being in a different body. Annabel, in her mother’s body, has to handle Ellen’s responsibilities at work and deal with her love life, while Ellen, in her daughter’s body, must go to school and cope with teenage troubles.
Through their new perspective, Ellen and Annabel gain a deeper understanding of each other’s lives and come to appreciate the struggles they each face. The experience brings them closer and allows them to grow as individuals and as a family.
“Freaky Friday” was well-received by both critics and audiences, praising its comedic performances and heartwarming message about family and empathy. Jodie Foster, in particular, received acclaim for her portrayal of the teenage Annabel in her mother’s body.
The success of the 1976 film led to several adaptations and remakes over the years, including a made-for-TV sequel in 1995, a TV movie in 2003, and a theatrical remake in 2003 starring Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis.
Overall, “Freaky Friday” remains a beloved Disney classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the people we love.
Fun Facts
- Freaky Friday is based on the novel by Mary Rodgers of the same name.
- Freaky Friday has been remade twice with a third coming to The Disney Channel in August 2018.
Additional Details
Cast
- Barbara Harris: Ellen Andrews
- Jodie Foster: Annabel Andrews
- John Astin: Mr. Bill Andrews
- Patsy Kelly: Mrs. Schmauss
- Dick Van Patten: Harold Jennings
- Vicki Schreck: Virginia
- Sorrell Booke: Mr. Dilk, the Principal
- Sparky Marcus: Ben Andrews
- Marc McClure: Boris Harris
Crew
- Director: Gary Nelson
- Producer: Ron Miller
- Writer: Mary Rodgers
Movie Trailer:
Related News:
- ‘Freaky Friday’ Sequel In The Works At Disney With Jamie Lee Curtis And Lindsay Lohan Expected To Reprise Roles, May 11, 2023
- Jamie Lee Curtis Says ‘Freaky Friday’ Sequel ‘Is Going to Happen’, February 27, 2023
- ‘Freaky Friday’ World Premiere on Disney Channel is No. 1 Telecast of the Summer in Key Demographics, August 15, 2018
- Disney Announces TV Premiere Date For Freaky Friday Musical, June 14, 2018
