A Small Budget Led to an All-Hands-on-Deck Approach

Landis got a budget of $3 million to make Animal House, a slim sum even for a comedy in 1978. Corners had to be cut everywhere. During the 32-day shoot in Eugene, Landis did not have a trailer or an office, and it was three weeks before he could watch any of the dailies he shot.

Landis’ wife Deborah Nadoolman, a costume designer, was around to help as well. She didn’t do too much “designing” on Animal House, though. Instead, she bought most of the costumes from local thrift stores in Oregon.

On top of that, she and Judy Belushi joined forces to make the togas for the famed toga party scene as well.