Great Job, Internet!: "Weird Al" Yankovic finally uncovers the lost Al's Brain
The educational short was originally shown in 3-D at state fairs in 2009.
Weird Al Yankovic has finally made available a lost 11-minute educational short film titled "Al's Brain," which he created in 2009. The singer announced the news on Bluesky, stating that he had obtained the necessary permission to upload the film, which had not been seen publicly since its initial release at the Orange County and Western Washington fairs in 2009.
The 3-D film attraction, which is both educational and entertaining, features Al Yankovic in a Mr. Wizard-style laboratory, where he answers questions about the brain from celebrities such as Fabio and Sir Paul McCartney. The film also includes skits with notable actors like Thomas Lennon, Patton Oswalt, and Tim & Eric.
One of the most iconic elements of the short is the wise owl providing factual information about the brain, voiced by Futurama's Billy West. The human professor, Al, is played by character actor Bob Bancroft, who is best known for his role as Frank on Parks & Recreation.
Despite the original film being in 3-D, the transition to 2-D computer screens has resulted in a less immersive experience. However, Al Yankovic remains optimistic as the film is still enjoyable, with a humorous paddle ball scene and a bald cap portrayal of Phineas Gage, a man who survived an iron rod injury to his skull. The film concludes with a catchy "Weird Al" song about the workings of the brain, reminding viewers that they should appreciate their neurons.
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