Mel Brooks is probably best known for having written and directed "Blazing Saddles", but I consider this to be his best film. In fact, from a technical viewpoint I consider this to be the best parody film ever made. The atmosphere, the music, the cast and the situations are accurately mimicked from the 1930 Frankenstein films, but to perfect comic effect. Anyone who knows and loves the originals will be unable to stop laughing when he watches "Young Frankenstein".
The film was made in 1974, and this seems to be when the action took place, even though there is a retro style to the American scenes (the university and the train station). Gene Wilder plays the grandson of Victor von Frankenstein, a scientist trying to deny his past. His dramatic over-acting when he discovers his grandfather's notes, and as a consequence discovers himself, is unparallelled genius. He's always been a competent actor, but this is the peak of his career. Also worth mentioning is Marty Feldman, who plays the hunchback Igor in one of his few film roles.
There's no need to describe the plot. Anyone who knows the American Frankenstein films will be able to guess what happens next throughout the film.
P.S. This is my horror film #7 for October.
One of my absolute favorites!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ka. The American Film Industry placed "Young Frankenstein" 13th in the list of the funniest films ever. Two other Mel Brooks films are also in the list, "Blazing Saddles" in 6th place and "The Producers" in 11th place. They're both good films, of course, but I consider "Young Frankenstein" to be the best of the three.
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