Young Frankenstein (1974) Movie Review

[@Weiselberry]

In case it's not obvious, I'm supposed to look like a slightly mad scientist here. (Only slightly mad because I couldn't get my hair to do anything too crazy.) Also, the outfit is similar to one I wore in my monster mash video five years ago. :) Here are links to the two videos I mention: review of the Universal Frankenstein films: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5rRoZVubMykbqs review of the Universal monster mashes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYrYeppthdeLi9U

[@chrisdigitalartist]

Yep! You looked the part! Good job and great little touch for your classic monster reviews!

[@Natakel]

Yes indeed. I hope your first act of being a mad scientist is to install some safety rails in your castle! 🙂

[@johnhareiel5118]

It is o.k. You are so stinkin cute!

[@chuckpoore]

I really appreciate that you point out how good an actual Frankenstein story this is, aside from being a good comedy. I have noticed that many of the best style/genre parody films are themselves good examples of those genres. Examples beyond Young Frankenstein, include Shawn of the Dead, Galaxy Quest, Ghostbusters. All great comedy films, but also legitimate examples of those genres that take the material seriously. Both Shawn of the Dead and Ghostbusters have genuinely scary moments, Galaxy Quest has genuinely exciting Sci Fi Action and some great character growth moments. This is what made Young Frankenstein a great comedy, it's just a great film, that just happens to be funny. And I have to say, Cloris Leachman absolutely steals this film. As great as the rest of the cast was (and they truly were) she owns every scene she's in. She was a master.

[@possiblepilotdeviation5791]

There wolf. There castle.

[@DarkmanPoe]

The greatest film comedy ever made, if you ask me. I’ve seen it dozens of times and it still cracks me up. Just pure magic.

[@andrewpragasam]

Call me crazy but I think Gene Hackman's cameo as the blind hermit is one of the best performances he ever gave. It's also strangely moving. "I was going to make expresso."

[@MarkAndrewEdwards]

Old "Zeppelin Lungs' Hackman was a lot of fun in this one

[@arnesahlen2704]

Yes, especially for an ad-lib!

[@wirebrushofenlightenment1545]

"You know, I'll never forget my old dad. When these things would happen to him - the things he'd say to me ..."

[@patrickrossetti7109]

B&W Weiselberry👍!

[@scottjo63]

4:14, "SEDIGIVE", love it!

[@pamelahall517]

This movie is the best! I'm so glad you reviewed it. Once again your coverage was stellar. (BTW The bloopers for this are equally hilarious.) It is my absolutely favorite monster movie. And for years I thought the best monster movies were the Abbott & Costello monster/comedies but after seeing this I changed my mind. I still love A&C monster comedies but Young Frankenstein was something more. It is just sooo good! You are right, it is a love letter to those old Frankenstein movies! YF was full of many great characters, so many fun gags, wonderful sets and atmosphere. It had just the right amounts of pathos and laughter! My favorite lines are "He was my ... BOYFRIEND." and "I was going to make expresso!" I first saw this in a theater where no one could contain their laughter and when it came out on DVD I grabbed it! I'm so glad both Dr. Frankenstein AND the monster get happy endings! Loved your mad scientist costume along with your review.

[@DiIdo_Gaggins]

You must crush your enemies. See them driven before you. And hear the lamentations of their women.

[@questprotector]

mel and gene could not have made a better movie if their lives depended on it! I can watch this movie over and over again and never get tired of it. I first saw this movie in morrilton, ark. in 1977 when I was 14, and I have never forgotten it. if I were to have a memorial service, I would want this movie to be played in the background over and over again for the duration. another movie you might want to review someday is "love at first bite".

[@Floridiots]

I just ripped off your idea. Rewriting my last rights now.

[@caomhan84]

Wieselberry dressed up for Halloween, complete with black and white video. Perfect! 😂👍

[@briang.5747]

When this was released in 1974 it played in one of the theaters in which I worked as a projectionist, often to a full house. The scene that elicited the most concentrated laughter was in the encounter by Gene Hackman as Harold, the blindman with Peter Boyle as The Monster. The audience was generally laughing so hard after the The Monster's thumb is set on fire and he bursts through the door to run away that they couldn't hear Hackman's last line, "I was going to make expresso." That was a pity as this is one of best lines in the movie in my opinion.

[@tim2269]

Did you screen the print the night before premier and have all your friends in the theatre?

[@briang.5747]

@@tim2269 that was not something a union projectionist would do, very unprofessional. This movie did not have its premiere in Burlingame, Ca. where the theater was located, but perhaps you mean the opening day? That would have been a Wednesday back then and the film print would have been delivered in the morning of that day. There would not have been a matinee, so the first shift projectionist would have made up the print from the 2,000' shipping reels to the 12,000' foot reel on the projector, probably a couple of hours before the first evening show at 7 PM. Actually the only instance of what you mention that I ever heard about was at the same theater, The Hyatt. On a message board a few years ago a guy who I recognized as having worked there as a doorman / manager when I worked there claimed to have borrowed a 4-track magnetic stereo print of "Funny Lady" from the Burlingame Drive-in and run it for a staff party. Why a drive-in would have such a print is a mystery, as none did stereo at the time. I think it must have been second run. The irony is that the Hyatt could run stereo prints (that is why he claimed to have borrowed it) but when this movie had run there first run we just had a mono optical print.

[@hbron112]

No one I have seen gets the arrival of Fredrick to Transylvania. He asks, "Pardon me boy, is this the Transylvania station?" The boy's reply mirrors the hugely popular song of the 40s, "Chatanooga Choo Choo"

[@Weiselberry]

I get it! I've always loved that bit. The whole exchange comes from the song: "Pardon me, boy, is that the Chattanooga choo choo? (Yes, yes. Track 29!) Boy, you can give me a shine..." I used to listen to that song frequently on our Glenn Miller cassette tape. I had the clip, but like so many other jokes, I couldn't find a good place to fit it into the video.

[@hbron112]

@@Weiselberry Ok I am now officially your fan!

[@glennsmusic]

@@Weiselberry When I was little, mum bought me a brand new pair of shoes for school which the cat promptly got stuck into. Dad finally caught the cat and tried to sing to me, "Pardon me boy, is this the cat that chewed your new shoes?" Dad jokes are still the funniest :D

[@joeomalley2835]

Omg, one of my favorite films of all time. One of the funniest and with so many classic moments and quotes. Thanks so much for reviewing this one. I love the black and white effect here!

[@williamblakehall5566]

I appreciate your costuming, Rome. A parody can be very distinct from a satire, because a satire can be very savage, irreverent, even critical, whereas a parody may work best precisely because the comedian genuinely loves the original story. In fact, it is speculated that the strength of a Brooks parody lies in how deep that love goes. He clearly loved Westerns and horror -- but Star Wars? Harder to say. (I'm not sure what happened with High Anxiety. As for Robin Hood, his best take on that was probably way back in his short-lived TV show When Things Were Rotten.) One detail of this movie I always have to chortle over is the idea that there is no indication of any ship or plane, that Freddy simply gets on a TRAIN, presumably from America directly to Transylvania. Neat trick! Thanks for doing this -- and for letting Godzilla peek over your left shoulder in his original black and white. Owl be seeing you.

[@winterburden]

Thanks for this super cool review, happy halloween!!

[@dorkarama3135]

The black and white cinematography is superb and apt, but I think there's a practical reason for it as well: this film and 'The Elephant Man' relied on heavy makeup and prosthetics, which would look inauthentic in colour. Also, like Suzanne Pleshette, Teri Garr should be cherished more.

[@bernardbober7300]

The blind hermit and monster scene is among my all time favourite comedy scenes.

[@kmremy1992]

Kinda find it funny how Columbia turned it down because it would be in black and white, when they were the ones who released The Last Picture Show 3 years earlier to critical AND commercial success when B&W was pretty much no longer the norm. Chalk it up to a change in management, I guess. But thank goodness for Alan Ladd Jr. at Fox. Always smart enough to roll the dice on some of the most unexpected and unconventional ideas. And most of them, including this one, stand the test of time.

[@whiskyandpoetry]

Young Frankenstein is my favourite Mel Brooks movie. In fact, in my 1974 video, I chose it as my favourite film of the year. Brooks didn't really do a lot of snarky stuff in his parodies. They generally were loving homages. To westerns with Blazing Saddles, and Hitchcock with High Anxiety, to name a couple. Also, I'm glad you mentioned John Morris' score. He did some great work with Brooks, perfectly crafting music for any style you could ask for, but his work on Young Frankenstein is, for my money, the best of the bunch.

[@postercereal3654]

"To the lumba-yawrd!!!"

[@anthonytripp2251]

I used to see Gene Wilder often in an antiques and second hand store that we both used to haunt on w 43 and 9th Ave. Nice guy. But always a bit sad.

[@7bestthings]

Your reviews of the 30's Frankenstein movies were how I first discovered your channel a few years ago, so this review brings it full circle. Young Frankenstein is a brilliant comedy, Wilder, Feldman, Hackman and Boyle are all amazing. But I agree with you, what makes this movie special is not just the humor, but the heart. It truly respects the source material and is a fitting tribute to those great movies of the 30's. Thanks for another great review!

[@postscript67]

On the subject of innuendo, before Marty Feldman became a Hollywood star, and before he was a TV comedy star in the UK, he co-wrote the late 1960s BBC radio comedy "Round the Horne". This was a Sunday lunchtime programme starring the impeccably respectable fruity-voiced BBC man Kenneth Horne as the anchor man of a crazy, rather subversive, circus of outrageous characters, double meanings and silliness, which the British listening public absolutely adored over their Sunday roast beef and Yorkshire pudding. Among the supporting cast was Kenneth Williams of "Carry On" film fame, and movie spoofs were a recurring theme.

[@BossNerd]

I am not a huge fan of Mel Brooks movies - but this one is really good. You rightfully point out how many things are done so well - casting, music, lighting, etc. Some movies just come together perfectly to be greater than the sum of their parts - I think this may be one of those movies.

[@joeomalley2835]

Mel Brooks is really hit and miss. Mostly miss for me. Except this one.

[@kendallrivers1119]

You don't like Blazing Saddles!? Come on, man that's a true comedy classic.

[@carminedawg9506]

You get the sense that Mel actually liked the Frankenstein movies considering the eye for detail he had with every aspect of the movie trying to make it feel like one of the old Universal Films. I liked Spaceballs but you don't get the same vibe from it that he cares about star wars or sci fi at all.

[@ygstuff4898]

One. Of. My. Absolute. Favourites. And I already have it on my "halloween weekend" watch list. So many great scenes and dialog--my family repeated them for years after watching the movie on TV (my mom asking if I had an "Abbie Normal Brain" when I did something stupid (haha!) ) So many incredible actors in this movie, which makes it even more amazing. And it totally holds up, being shot in grainy b&w, and set in the classic monster era. I also had a kiddie crush on Teri Garr because of this movie. You look perfect in b&w, with the lab coat and safety glasses (I vote for more "themed" outfits in reviews).

[@CaresinVerse]

I loved this film so much. Gene Wilder had a wonderful understanding of what works on film and proved it in many times over in this one.

[@handfuloftrains4781]

I've seen this film only once, so long ago now that I've forgotten most of it, especially the fact that Teri Garr is even in it. I find the comedy style of Mel Brooks very hit-and-miss as well, but your review intrigues me - I may have to give this one another look. Now I'm off to find a sincere pumpkin patch to sit in.

[@jvondd]

What do I think? This is easily my favorite comedy movie, my favorite parody and unsurprisingly, one of my overall favorite movies. I'm not sure where everyone else sits on this, but my favorite scene isn't one of the obvious ones. It's right after Frederick and the monster perform "Puttin' on the Ritz." The moment when Peter Boyle leaps into he crowd and is fighting everyone is, in my opinion, the best scene and demonstrates that this is more than just a spoof. The angle, lighting, music, sound mixing and great performance from Boyle make me momentarily forget that I'm watching a comedy. Most parodies would probably try to insert a joke during this moment because the common MO for these types of movies is to have a joke for every sequence, but this movie doesn't because being confused, frightened, attacked and locked up in chains isn't funny and shouldn't be treated as a joke. I feel like that brief tragic moment in the film is crucial because underneath all the silliness is a genuine story about the fear of being rejected and unloved. I adore this movie and can't gush enough over it.

[@johnbaca8692]

I like most of Mel Brooks' movies. This is one of my faves. I just happened to see it a couple of months ago. I hadn't seen it since I first saw it in the theater all those years ago; only a scene here and there. I appreciated it as a loving tribute to the old Universal movies, the funny gags and the artistry. Spot on review. Thanks!

[@barbarabrown7974]

Put the candle back!

[@frankg7177]

Many thanks for this wonderful Halloween gift to all your viewers. Your amazingly comprehensive 20 minute analysis of "Young Frankenstein" is a Classic in itself. As someone with a lifelong obsession with the Universal Monster series, I have always looked upon this film as Mel Brooks' loving tribute to those old gems. I once read that he, as a child, was so frightened by seeing the 1931 "Frankenstein" that it brought on a recurring nightmare of the monster climbing up his Brooklyn fire escape to get him. Clearly, it made a lasting impression. There are far too many high points to focus on just a few, but I have always loved Marty Feldman's six note horn solo, coming in on cue as a counterpoint to Gene Wilder's violin.. 🙂

[@scottjo63]

Very short, great video, Happy Halloween, have fun!

[@AngelZaragosa]

For me, the sweet spot for Mel Brooks films were the mid-1970s comedies: "Blazing Saddles" (1974) mainly a straight up spoof of westerns mixed with deep stereotypes with Cleavon Little being the grounded exception to the rule; "Young Frankenstein" (1974) as a love letter comedic homage to classic Universal Studios horror films, and "Silent Movie" (1976) which is a satirical take on silent pictures from the 1920s. In a way it seems Mel Brooks was drawing on his memories of different genres from the 1920s through the 1940s. I feel that Brooks stumbled quite a bit when he reached the 1950s and his Alfred Hitchcock spoof "High Anxiety" (1977). I feel that the song and dance scene in "Young Frankenstein" is drawn from the 1933 "King Kong" captured and on display segment. I don't know if you have ever viewed "Mad Monster Party?" (1967) made by the Rankin-Bass best known for their 1960s Christmas specials "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer", "Frosty the Snowman", and "The Little Drummer Boy". I'd put that stop motion animated film firmly in the spoof category.

[@13down13]

I love this movie - one of my most favorite comedy films. This movie has been with me a long time and never fails to disappoint. It's perfectly cast all the way down to Gene Hackman. Teri Garr was never more beautiful and funny; however, that accent is certainly nothing to write home about. Madeline Kahn is great as ever. Very quotable movie - I always end up saying "nice grouping" whenever I play darts. My favorite scene is the "Puttin' on the Ritz" scene - never fails to bring out a good laugh. Sadly, this was the last colaboration between Wilder and Brooks. A movie like High Anxiety really could have benefitted from Wilder being in the title role instead of brooks, who just isn't good enough to carry a movie in my opinion. I completely agree with you about Brooks' career being hit or miss. I love this one, Blazing Saddles and History of the World part 1 and like Spaceballs a lot. However, the others... they don't do a lot for me. He really hasn't been that prolific, directing only 10 films to date.

[@rsacchi100]

This was a fun and thoughtful review. I love "Young Frankenstein". It was a good move staying close to the original movies. How close they copied the brain switch from the original is comedic genius. I don't think it's possible to hear "Puttting on the Ritz" and not think of "Young Frankenstein". You may want to give "Ed Wood" a look, if you haven't already. It has a similar harken back to to an earlier time look.

[@bartolomeuomacduibheamhnad6855]

Doing this review in black and white was a great idea :D I love the mad scientist look also, really fitting and funny! I saw the thumbnail and thought wow that’s fantastic! Lol. I’ve always like Young Frankenstein for the reasons you’ve mentioned, it’s really a loving nod with humour to those classic Universal Monster films and doesn’t make fun of them, it adds humour while also doing what the better Universal Monster films did, tell a story about someone being misunderstood because the community sees them as an uncanny thing and not a being or person with feelings. It’s so well cast too, Gene Wilder is so good, Madeline Khan, Terri Garr, Cloris Leachman, Peter Boyle and especially Marty Feldman, he was so funny, Feldman as Igor looked a lot like an old lady that lived in the village near my Grandparents house, she’d wear her black shawl constantly and her eyes had minds of their own, she had a way of being very friendly and chirpy while also looking like she’d just received shocking news. I love the dance scene, whenever Peter Boyle sings I can’t help but giggle. I recently saw a short clip from an old interview with Mel Brooks where he talked about his friendship with Cary Grant, it’s an odd duo kzbin.info/www/bejne/b4LFcod8obmUkNU Terrific review with so much detail and a great choice for Halloween. Have a happy and not too spooky Halloween ⚗️👩🏻‍🔬 ~ Thank you Ms Weiselberry ~

[@Weiselberry]

Hahaha, that clip was great! :D I can barely count the number of famous people I've met on one hand, but I can totally relate to the way he reacted!

[@t.andrewhanes872]

I know so many people who can quote multiple lines from this… and the casting is perfect… But its its loving homage to the original universal films that really makes this movie so wonderful. Werewolf? THERE, wolf!

[@HotDogRock]

Yes. It's the pathos of the film that makes the corny jokes work so well.

[@kellyjkennedy]

So glad you reviewed this Miz W - it's like a Halloween valentine! And having just seen 'Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein' at a local revival theater it's kind of interesting to compare the 2 different styles of comedy treatment to the original classic. Watching your review it reminds me of 2 recommendations I'd love to hear your take on someday - 'The Elephant Man' produced by Brooks and 'Paper Moon' which also has Madeline Kahn - both movies also feature some great period looking cinematography! Happy Halloween! :)

[@Weiselberry]

I've seen The Elephant Man. Whew, it's an incredible film, but such a challenge to get through. It's just so heartbreaking, and there's one part I almost couldn't bear to watch. Every time I think about it, it makes me want to cry. It's a powerful story, beautifully made and brilliantly acted, but it's one of the most difficult things I've ever watched. I respect Brooks' insistence that his involvement be kept under wraps so that audiences wouldn't get the wrong idea. Without him, it would have turned out quite differently, I'm sure. I believe he was the one who hired David Lynch to write and direct, and he advocated for the black and white photography. Anyway, I doubt I'll voluntarily revisit the film anytime soon, but in a nutshell, that's my take on it. :)

[@kellyjkennedy]

@@Weiselberry Thanks for sharing that - just shows what an empathetic person you are. I do remember some heartbreaking things in that film but it's been so long i've probably forgotten how powerfully uncomfortable some of it is! Now i feel a little bad about recommending you things - I know you're list is a mile long already! Wishing you much happier things in the week ahead!! :D

[@Weiselberry]

@@kellyjkennedy Don't feel bad! Recommendations are great; they ensure I never run out of things to talk about. :)

[@PaintDryPictures]

I love this review, Jerome! I’m diggin’ the black and white, too. Truth be told, when I was a little kid and this movie was on TV, I thought I was watching a movie from the 1940’s, not yet having any idea that it was from 1974. Hope you and your family have a very Happy Halloween! 🎃 👻 🍫 🦉

[@analysisofscifi6051]

I like this film but I I have that on DVD I need to wacth it again

[@ninetyZeven]

I love your Elvis glasses!

[@Weiselberry]

Ha, thanks! They do kind of resemble his glasses, don't they? They're safety glasses from my dad's workbench. :D

[@ninetyZeven]

@@Weiselberry Yup! Haha!

[@mikek3979]

Great review vlog - Young Frankenstein & Blazing Saddles (and maybe The Producers) IMHO are the very best Brooks films!

[@CarlB_1962]

As often happens when I watch your reviews, you’ve sparked my interest in a film I’ve previously had no interest in watching!

[@Natakel]

Put . . . the candle . . .back! I loved this movie. Starred a good few of my favorite actors - Wilder and Madeline Kahn to name a few. It's one of those movies I can always watch if I catch it on. All the actors played well off each other and the humor, while campy at times, was right on the mark for me. I gotta dig my copy of it up and watch it again soon. By the way, I covet your safety glasses! 😀 A most excellent review! Also just watched your 5 favorite Star Trek TOS episodes. Still trying to catch up!

[@farfignaution]

Absolutely love this movie! My favorite Brooks, Wilder, and ya Friedman is perfect and Hackman's bit is so fabulous. Watch it every Halloween. Thank you for this review, and pointing out all the masterful filmmaking involved. Definitely an homage and not a parody. Also loved your choice to film in B&W and to become a mad scientist yourself!

[@ziggle314]

Great review. Brought back many memories of seeing this moving in the theater.

[@orinanime]

This is my favorite Mel Brooks movie. I've watched it a hundred times with my father. I've got it practically completely memorized. I was quoting along with and full-throated belly- laughing at every clip you showed. Also, I've seen the original Universal Frankenstein movies dozens of times. Son of Frankenstein is honestly my favorite. And I adored catching all of the references throughout this movie. I also always like to pretend that there's a "serious" version of this story where Frederic is Peter. The curly haired son of Basil Rathbone's Wolfe Frankenstein. Tweak a few scenes and squint your eyes and... "IT... COULD... WORK!" It's not like the Universal Monster movies were all that good about continuity anyway. Thank you as always for sharing the wonderful review and your thoughts and memories of the movie.

[@niallboyle5211]

An excellent review of a marvellous comedy. Great cast, looney storyline, crazy accents, madcap situations, hilarious dialogue. A loving tribute to the classic 30s original. However, Marty Feldman steals the whole movie. "What hump?" "Abby normal." Thanks Miss Weiselberry.

[@alandhopewell]

Saw this theatrically at it's initial release; the first time I ever saw an entire theater packed with people howling with laughter. I'm with you; the only Brooks films I really enjoyed were this one and THE PRODUCERS.

[@Pb-ij4ip]

“I ain’t got no body.”

[@maxdewinter9472]

You almost always point out something that I had not considered before. Young Frankenstein is a favorite, but I had never thought about the way it seems to be set in multiple time periods. Love the lab coat and safety goggles.

[@glennsmusic]

Yeah I never noticed that either but now that I think about it, here's my thesis: he starts off in modern day America and begins his journey. As he gets closer to Transylvania, the further back in time he goes.

[@jk3521]

Seen the movie a hundred times { literally } and laughed at the same parts each time!

[@johnw706]

An excellent review of this great comedy . The casting was spot on , and you're correct in pointing out that this film is not just a parody , but also a tribute to these films . Which reminds me , I need to watch them again ( and this one as well ) Thanks !

[@irawolf]

Another great and thoughtful review!! In this film, the moral of the novel was learned: be responsible for your creations or they will destroy. I always have a picture of Frankenstein in my office to remind me of that lesson. Now, put the candlestick… back!

[@danielmkubacki]

Young Frankenstein is a great movie to watch on a rainy day. So funny a classic!

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

*_"Could be worse."_* *_"HOW?"_* *_"Could be raining."_* I LOVED that bit...🤭

[@duleybraza4558]

Great review with so much information. I usually learn something new about a movie from your reviews. Who'd have known that Mel Brooks screams like a cat when hit with a dart?

[@ColonelFredPuntridge]

One of Mel Brooks’ greatest movies is also one of his strangest: the almost-forgotten THE TWELVE CHAIRS (1970). With Frank Langella, Ron Moody, and Dom Deluise. It’s one of Deluise’s best performances.

[@peterkarargiris4110]

I actually saw this film in the cinema way back in 1974 as a nine year old. I loved it back then. After your great review, I'm getting the bluray. Cheers JW.

[@leonardvicari2857]

My father took my younger brother and I to the movies to see it in 1974 and we laughed hilariously

[@frankensteinmonster1931]

Young Frankenstein is my favorite comedy of all time. I’m totally not biased or anything. Totally….

[@Videolandexpress]

Expresso !!! This and Blazing Saddles had Brooks on top of his game. Shame they don't make films like this anymore.

[@donkelley7407]

HI J., great choice for October. I was 8 when I saw Frankenstein in a theater, and the year before Young came out, I saw Blazing Saddles twice. So I knew what I was walking into. Like you said, it's a parody but you can tell these classic movies meant a lot to Brooks, Wilder and others. I was amazed at the authentic look of the film and the crazy lab machinery. The humor? Meh. I preferred Saddles but this was funny enough. Thanks for this, I learned some things, very enjoyable.

[@sharkdentures3247]

"I didn't realize how much sexual innuendo there was in this movie." Ummm? . . . . Have you ever SEEN a Mel Brooks movie? "What KNOCKERS!" "Oh, thank you Herr Doctor."

[@AntiEstablishmentRhetorician]

I love how you much you research.

[@Adam_Le-Roi_Davis.]

This was an excellent review of this wonderful film, thank you. This film isn't a parody, it's a homage, made with love, with great performances all round not just from the leads, although they are outstanding. Particularly Marty Feldman I think who wasn't well known in the U.S.A. but here in the U.K. he was far better known and used to have his own weekly T.V. series, sadly he die of a heart attack in Mexico whilst filming 'Yellowbeard' in 1982, he was born in Canning Town, London which was at the time quite a poor part of the city. This is one of the best comedy horror films ever made, along with 'Carry On Screaming' which I recommend it's done in the style of the horror films which 'Hammer Studio's used to produce, there was a long-running series of comedy films made in the U.K. mainly during the '60s which were based on jobs, historical events, etc, they all started with the prefix 'Carry On...', such as 'Carry on Spying', 'Carry On Cowboy', 'Carry On Cleo' (Cleopatra), 'Carry On Doctor' and so on et al. Anyway, thank you again for your great review, and please consider my recommendation.

[@dennisswaim8210]

Simply a Masterpiece and a loving tribute to the original movies.

[@swissarmytenor]

In 2018 I was in the stage musical version of this movie, and if you have the chance to see it, I highly recommend it. The script is for the most part the same, the music/songs are great, as well. Mel Brooks is credited w/ both music and lyrics...but I do have the feeling he very likely had 'help' from an actual composer, haha. The cast of our performances would also usher, showing people to their seats before the show. A lady walked up to me and asked (with hope in her eyes), "Does Frau Blucher say, 'He was my boyfriend?' That's my favorite line from the movie." Knowing that Frau Blucher has an entire song titled 'He Vas My Boyfriend' I replied, "I think you're going to like this show very much."

[@OldmanGamerYT]

I love that movie.

[@MsBackstager]

Such campy humor that escapes many people at first but I noticed it and loved it.

[@tonydeluna8095]

Great intro Jerome 💛! Happy Halloween 🎃🎃🎃

[@robertlancaster4538]

Jerome Weiselberry, I do agree that Brooks 'Young Frankenstein' is indeed a 'love letter.' I and a friend, several years ago, coming off a book club 'Frankenstein' read and also wishing to revisit Brooks film, did a watch of 'Frankenstein'/'Bride of Frankenstein'/'Son of Frankenstein' prior to 'Young Frankenstein'.

[@robertlancaster4538]

When I was nine years old, I and my mom got together with one of moms gal friends. We had a little grilled outdoor dinner, then we went to see a film. My friends couple-years-older-than-me daughter, and her friends, wanted to see 'Young Frankenstein', but I think the ma'am's consulted and thought it a bit 'adult', so we saw something else, which I remember solely as 'something else than Young Frankenstein.' [What I _do_ remember was that the older kids were highly amused when I referred to 'boys and grils', and repeatedly asked me to repeat the phrase without explaining their motives. Eventually they brought my performance to the adults scrutiny, whence those kindly elders set my pronunciation straight].

[@JakobNoone]

First movie I saw in an actual movie theater. And definitely a top ten desert island movie choice for me. Your review perfectly captures the wonder of this film (Mel's masterpiece, IMO). Hope it helps some find (or better appreciate) the film.

[@CaseySexton]

Perfect upload for Halloween. The lab gear is an awesome touch lol, one of my favorite videos yet... but to be honest I love this movie so I'm biased 😁

[@ClassicScreamsVideo]

Wonderful review. I have always thought of the as a tribute to the Original not so much a spoof. One of Mel Brooks best. Thanks for a great review.

[@dennisjames6753]

Another great review. Always loved this film and the Universal films it parodies. Love your costume and the black and white!

[@glennsmusic]

It's FRUNKENSTEEN !!!! 🤣 Mel Brooks had to battle the studios to get Silent Movie made too for much the same reason. "Wait, your entire movie is ... silent?" I do appreciate this movie more now than when it first came out. As you say, Mel Brooks can be hit or miss, but you know what they say, if you don't take the shot, you're guaranteed a miss. (I don't know who said that...) Perhaps it was Gene Wilder's strong influence that helped steer this movie in the right direction. A lot of that "double entendres", the "pause for effect" stuff is really old school vaudeville, music hall, revue based which, I would say, is where Mel Brooks was schooled. Let's not forget Get Smart :D

[@kevinogracia1615]

Yes! The beauty of this spoof (besides the knocker's joke} is that Mel used the original Frankenstein lab set. Also check out "I Was A Teenage Nephew Of Frankenstein's Albino Nanny." Chilling. Peace on earth.

[@nicholasjanke3476]

Unlike other film makers-who when they do horror parodies simply do a series of cheap gags and little more, when Mel Brooks did Young Frankenstein he was careful with all the details of horror/gothic set design, the monster makeup, special effects, not to mention great comic depth in the plot.

[@jaygee6738]

The word "innuendo" is in itself.. an innuendo.

[@PaulTesta]

J.W., Have you ever seen (and reviewed) the original "The Producers" (1967)? It's more satire, than spoof. And it also earned Mel Brooks an Oscar for screenplay.

[@Weiselberry]

I've seen some or most of it. Haven't reviewed it or mentioned it at all.

[@DamnableReverend]

This is definitely an affectionate and fun tribute rather than a parody. I don't like horror parodies genearlly but I really like this movie. I last watched it a few months ago, not after watchin the Universal Frankenstein films, but after having watched the hammer Frankenstein series. It was a nice cap-off to the whole thing, i thought. I do think it's more in line with teh Universal spirit of the 30s and 40s but it does seem like teh hammer take might have been a smaller influence as well.

[@ricksamericana749]

Did I hear you mention "House Of Frankenstein"? A film co-staring Ann Gwynne the other in law of Robert Pine. Grandmother to Chris Pine. Ann Gwynne, Tess Trueheart in the early "Dick Tracy" serials. She was one of the most popular pinups for American G.I.s in WWII. I hope people will always recall her many films for Universal in the 40s and 50s.

[@colinmclean3029]

I love this film, it never fails to make me laugh every time, just like Blazing saddles and Haunted Honeymoon.

[@wiseguymaybe]

Very well done review, but as far as Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks butting heads, that only happened on one scene, the putting on the ritz dancing scene where Gene had to fight to keep that scene in as Mel Brooks thought it was to over the top.

[@sly2392]

so many one liners. i have watched many hilarious movies in my time and none compare to YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, not even close. maybe MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLLY GRAIL. the cast was perfect for this film and the story was perfect. when things are not going so good just watch this movie. COULD BE WORST, COULD BE RAINING. 🤣

[@Allan_aka_RocKITEman]

@JeromeWeiselberry >>> I immediately figured out you shot this in Black & White as an homage to the movie. For some reason I did NOT immediately figure out you were wearing safety glasses...🤭 {I presume because I have worked multiple jobs where safety glasses were re required, so I am used to seeing them.}

[@ronaldweed6103]

Made me laugh so much I have this in my DVD collection

[@stevenedwards4470]

That was a very thoughtful review. I think Mel lost the plot after History of the World pt.1. I'd always hoped he'd do pt.2 because of all the potential material to draw from...which I think would've been helpful to him.

[@robertlancaster4538]

16:06 Charming recollection of your mis-recollection!

[@MarkAS56]

I would really look forward to you moving on to the Hammer Frankenstein series as well. I'd be very interested in your thoughts on those.

[@sidmarx7276]

Madeline Kahn is the real genius in Mel Brooks movies.

[@betinaceciliafeld9854]

I watched this film for the first time several years ago and I didn't enjoyed it, feeling as you do about Mel Brooks films. Last year I rewatched it and I loved it. I'm not sure if having watched Frankenstein and Bride of Frankenstein in between has something to do with that change, it may be the case. Another parody/love letter by Brooks and my all time favorite among his films is High Anxiety. Have you watched it? If so, I'd love to see your review about it. Thanks for the great, atmospheric video!

[@Weiselberry]

No, I haven't seen High Anxiety or Silent Movie; both have been mentioned in other comments. Glad you enjoyed the atmosphere! :)

[@glenjaminbutton1126]

Big Jerome Weiselberry fan btw

[@chrisdigitalartist]

Hi friend! First if all, I love your mad scientist costume and having the video in B&W! This movie took me awhile to get into. It isn't quite the same humor as Me Brooks' previous films...sometimes it does feel serious. It wasn't until I got into the Universal Horror movies and then understood the references that I started appreciating it more! Now it is a tradition for my father and I to watch this and Dracula Dead and Loving it every Halloween! Speaking of have you seen Mel Brooks' Dracula Dead and Loving it? Another great movie and I think the ranchier humor is tone down compared to Brooks' earlier movies. BTW - Did you ever think Cloris Leachman looked a lot like Una O'Connor from The Bride of Frankenstien? Also, a little update on my dad. His MRI showed no cancer in the brain...so that is good news...but we are still waiting to see more tests on his biopsy. So far just cancer in the lungs and couple lymph nodes....so thanks for the prayers and please keep praying! 🙏 Happy Halloween! 🎃 👻

[@Weiselberry]

That is very good news! I'm glad to hear that. Thanks for the update, and I'll definitely keep you all in my prayers. You know, it hadn't occurred to me that there was a resemblance between Leachman and O'Connor, but that could definitely be what they were going for! The personality is different, but there are similarities in position and appearance. Nice catch! I have seen Dracula: Dead and Loving It, ha. I wouldn't say I'm a fan, but it does have some very funny parts, like Renfield eating the bug off the table and Dracula trying (and failing) to lure his next victim out. Oh, and the geyser of blood. :)

[@chrisdigitalartist]

@@Weiselberry Thanks! Yes my dad and I love that bug table scene too and that actor portraying reinfeld looks and sounds so much like Dwight frye!! Yes when blood is over the top, it is more comical than gory! Thanks for the reply and for the prayers for my dad. That's one thing I keep thinking about...I don't want to loose my dad because movies is how we bond, it wouldn't be the same....

[@Weiselberry]

@@chrisdigitalartist I totally understand how you feel. The best thing you can do is focus on the time you spend together and make the most of every moment, and pray that he'll beat this so you can share movie-related adventures for years to come. Hang in there, and don't be shy about telling him you love him.

[@chrisdigitalartist]

@@Weiselberry Aww thank you for your support and for the kind words...that was really nice. 🙏

[@chrisdigitalartist]

@@Weiselberry Watching this with my dad now and the one thing I forgot to mentioned...I don't like Gene Wilder always yelling! Lol