This must be the most funniest version of the Hollywood classic ’’Frankenstein’’. I’m sure many of you know that there are many, many versions to Mary Shelly’s novel Frankenstein. America was at her best when the 1932 classic of ’’Frankenstein’’ was released which stared a wonderful legendary actor Boris Karloff who portrayed the Monster. Later we would see a British version of this legendary man made creature from Hammer films, which stared two masters of horror on the British screen they were Christopher Lee, and Peter Cushing.
Many more versions of Frankenstein were released down through the years gracing Frankenstein fans with different forms of creativity, and tastes from many directors, and writers who jumped on the band wagon with a ’’Frankenstein’’ remake.
In this zany, and funny version of this delightful legendary monster ’’Frankenstein’’ Director Mel Brooks brings us his version with a different twist; it’s comedy. In this movie ’’Young Frankenstein’’ (1974) Dr. Frankenstein’s grandson who still lives with his father’s reputation of the great scientist continues his father’s legacy. He inherits his father’s castle, and goes on a series of scientific experiments when creating a new life form from the remains of dead people. Well, the monster not only lives, but he steals our hearts when he goes Hollywood, dancing, and performing some of Hollywood’s greatest showcase ballads on stage with his creator, Dr. Frankenstein.
In this version of ’’Frankenstein’’ the monster befriends a blind man, and this meeting is quite funny Gene Hackman, (The Firm) and Peter Boyle (Santa Clause, 2003) who portrays the monster together they provide the best performance in the movie when they meet in a noble fashion at the home of the blind. The monster is on the run after braking lose from the castle after being locked up so long. The monster’s encounter with his bride to be is also very funny, and I must admit a little crazy.
Gene Wilder (Stir Crazy 1980) in his lead role as young Dr. Frankenstein isn’t bad he does quite well, but he’s certainly not at his best in this movie. Marty Feldmen (Martys Group, 1983) in his portrayal as Igor is also very funny I found his bulging eyes of terror a delight to watch. This remake of ’’Frankenstein’’ pretty much stays in line with the 1932 classic, the script is very much the same along with the setting. Director Mel Brooks does an excellent job with the on scene location of this movie. The castle used in this movie is also the same castle used in the 1932 version. Mel Brooks also does an excellent job with the black, and white cinematography capturing the same flair as the 1932 version of Frankenstein.
I give this movie my highest recommendation if you just don’t have anything else to watch on a Friday or Saturday night or if you love classic horror. ’’Young Frankenstein’’ is a very entertaining movie to say the least.
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