Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein (1974) is part of the big four. The other three include Men in Tights, Spaceballs, and Blazing Saddles. While this film is the least of these to me, it is still a fantastic comedy that is worth watching multiple times.
STORY: The grandson of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein is trying to make his own way, but he keeps getting drawn back into the world. He travels to Transylvania to see where it all happened.
I'm not sure if enough people realize the genius of Gene Wilder's comedy. He plays the young Frankenstein doctor. His character can be a bit dramatic at times and witty at others. It's easy to tell he co-wrote the script with Mel Brooks and earned an Oscar nomination. This is back in the days when the Academy Awards would nominate films that ya know... deserve the nomination, but that's a rant for another day.
A directing choice I enjoy includes filming in black and white. It helps keeps the atmosphere even though it takes place in modern-day (1975). You can watch it in color, but I prefer it this way. Of course, this depiction of Translyvania suggests the villagers are stuck in the olden days. They use horses and carriages, and their policemen have delightful spikey hats. Look at Inspector Kemp for reference who is a funny character.
It also comes with cobblestone streets, pitchforks, fire, good old-fashioned riots, and as always the Creature. The production design wouldn't be complete without the castle complete without big corridors and secret passageways. I'd love to stay at a place like that for a few days and just wander including late-night trips around the grounds.
Now let's get to the Creature. Remember that Frankenstein is the man and the monster is the Creature. They go the classic tale route by Igor getting the wrong brain then they diverge. The Creature has some funny acts that directly reference Mary Shelly's original work including meeting a blind man and a child.
I'll mention both starlets before wrapping up. Both of them collected Golden Globe nominations. You might recognize Madeline Kahn from Blazing Saddles and there is Terri Garr as the laboratory assistant.
Per usual, the best way to truly appreciate a film is by watching. You don't need to wait until October to laugh! My film rating is an A-.
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