Manic Monday: World Jump Day

Source: Tumblr

It's Manic Monday again, and I guess most of us feel like good ol' Buster Keaton up there. The first day after the weekend usually provokes in most of us the desire to jump off the next building in order to make the Monday Blues stop. As it happens, it's also World Jump Day today, so, to be honest, we've actually got  enough motive to pursue our break-neck endeavour. 

Initially meant to raise awareness for global warming, this special holiday is definitely not designed for risqué stunts or suicidal tendencies, though. This is why, in order to keep you safe and sound, I've decided to celebrate the occasion by compiling a list of noteworthy jumps in cinematic history. Therefore, stay off the roofs, BSPeeps, prop up your feet and get through this dreadful day by watching beloved movie characters take the leap for you.

Sherlock Jr. (1924) 

Source: YouTube

Keaton is even willing to take the jump for you twice. In this classic from the silent film era, the master of stunts leaps head-first through a human body to escape from two threatening pursuers. It's probably the most surreal and fun jump of today's list. 

Peter Pan (1953)  

© Walt Disney | Source: Tumblr

Don't shed a tear, Wendy! Although Captain Hook sends you over the plank, there's no need to fret. We all know that what is meant to be a sure death amongst the crocodiles will eventually be prevented by the flying Neverland inhabitant Peter, who hides next to the ship to catch poor Wendy just in time.

Rebel Without a Cause (1955)

© Warner Bros. | Source: DVD Beaver

This film turned actor James Dean into the embodiment of teenage rebellion and sheer coolness. He's so cool that in the chickie run scene, he manages to jump out of his car right before it goes off a steep cliff, while his opponent Buzz races straight into his demise. Timing is everything when taking a leap.

Mary Poppins (1964)

After all the tragic jumping, it's time for another lovely leap. Mary Poppins, a.k.a. the best nanny ever, shows us what a bit of faith and imagination can do to a bog-standard jump onto a pavement drawing. This has always been my favourite part of the film.

Rocky III (1982)

© 20th Century Fox | Source: YouTube

Bromance is essential in the third part of the popular sports movie franchise revolving around boxer Rocky Balboa. There's really nothing like showing off some ridiculuous moves - formation-dance-style - together with your BFF. When it comes to this list, this is one of the few instances in which I dare say: Do try this at home!

Dirty Dancing (1987)

© Vestron Pictures | Source: Buzzfeed

I know, I know, this is probably the most obvious choice. But as a Dirty Dancing devotee with a mild crush on Patrick Swayze I just can't help but put this fine example of jump-and-lift action onto the list. Just look at the people in the audience. Eveybody's perfectly delighted. And don't tell me you haven't tried this out yourselves in a swimming pool nearby at least once. Been there, done that.

Titanic (1997)

© 20th Century Fox | Source: Amid Night Suns

"You jump, I jump. Remember?" - How could we possibly not remember this, Jack? I guess all of us 90s children vividly recollect the first meeting between first-class passenger Rose DeWitt Bukater and third-class traveller Jack Dawson, and their tragic fate on the ship of dreams, the Titanic. Granted that Rose does not actually jump off the ship in the end, it's the thought that counts.

The Bourne Ultimatum (2007) 

© Universal Pictures | Source: YouTube

This jump is on the list because, well, it's friggin' amazing! Just look at how the camera follows the stuntman over the balcony and through the smashing window. Action cinema per-fec-tion!

Tangled (2010)

© Walt Disney | Source: YouTube screenshot

Speaking of action cinema: Disney's Tangled, while mostly being a romantic coming-of-age story, definitely has its kick-ass adventure moments. Here, Rapunzle jumps off a rock formation to escape from some pursuers, using her hair to gallantly swing back to the ground. The whole thing results in a dam break and is definitely worth a watch. Enjoy some tough lady action, BSPeeps.

Inception (2010) 

© Warner Bros. | Source: Click's Clan

Back to more tragic grounds: This beautifully staged scene from Christopher Nolan's dream walker adventure has main character Cobb witness the suicide of his wife Mal. "I'm asking you to take a leap of faith," is what she says to him shortly before she plunges off the building. Definitely don't do this at home!  

Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)

© Village Roadshow Pictures | Source: fact.co.uk

There are countless impressive stunts in George Miller's newest Mad Max installment. However, this well-choreographed slow-mo jump definitely fits the occasion best. But, mind you, this is not only jumping for jumping's sake. The scene also functions as an effective depiction of fanatism. Don't we just love our jumps subtle and meanigful?

Thanks for taking the leap with us today, BSPeeps. Feel free to let us know about your favourite movie jumps in the comment section below.