Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure - Underrated Pacing Genius?

Okay, dudes and dudettes, Andersoncuts here. I just rewatched Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure (1989) and I'm wondering if, as editors, we give it enough credit for its tight structure. It's easy to dismiss as a goofy comedy, but I think it's secretly a masterclass in escalating stakes and character introductions. Like, think about it: we meet Bill and Ted, immediately understand their situation (band, history fail, military school threat), and BAM, Rufus shows up with the time machine hook within the first, what, 10 minutes? No wasted time! And then it's just a relentless parade of historical figures, each with their own mini-arc and comedic payoff. The editing in the historical sequences is brisk, but never feels rushed. They get in, get the historical figure, and get out – always keeping an eye on that history report deadline. I'm especially thinking of the Napoleon sequence, gets me every time. Is it realistic? Heck no, but the pacing is perfect. I want to know if anyone else finds the structure of this movie as satisfying as I do, or am I just overanalyzing a totally excellent time travel comedy? There are some continuity gags and repeated jokes, such as them getting called fat by multiple people (the medieval villagers, Billy the Kid) that really make me laugh, but I can understand that they're not for everyone. Also, total side note: how did they get George Carlin to commit so hard to this role? Rufus is iconic, and Carlin's delivery is just chef's kiss. Any thoughts on his performance and impact on the film?