One of the biggest Mel Brooks comedy films is the ‘Y’ letter of the Alphabet challenge with the 1974 Young Frankenstein.

The film, directed by Brooks with Gene Wilder in the lead role was actually co-written by the pair in their 3rd collaboration (having already made the 1968 The Producers, and Blazing Saddles which also came out in 1974).

The film follows the grandson on Victor Frankenstein – Frederick – an accomplished scientist who is keen to distance himself from the craziness of his grandfather.

However upon the news that his grandfather has died, and he is the recipient of his estate, Frederick finds himself travelling to the home and discovering the secrets of Victor’s work. With the assistance of Igor (Marty Feldman), Inga (Teri Garr) and Frau Blucher (Cloris Leachman) he delves into Victor’s work and quickly becomes obsessed with recreating his experiments.

The film remains a comedy classic and one of the best films that Brooks made. The strength of the film comes from the quality and links to the entire genre of 1930’s horror films that it is parodying and Wilder’s performance as the increasing mad scientist is one of his best.

It remains a wonderful example of the quality of Wilder’s comic powers.

8/10

That’s what I thought – what about you? Have you seen it? Comment below and share your thoughts…