Review of The Producers (1968) by Connor — 02 Jan 2006

This is most certainly a classic comedy from Mel Brooks. It's different than many of Brooks' later films since he doesn't "hit you over the head" with the jokes, but allows some shards of subtlety to creep into the dialogue.

After seeing the Broadway show and the subsequent movie musical, parts may seem a bit slow or toned down, but if you step back and watch it as a stand-alone film, you can see the absurdity (and genius) of the plotline.

Zero Mostel is brilliant as the original Max Bialystock; over-the-top at times and terrifically understated at others. Gene Wilder certainly is the best Leo Bloom in my opinion, better than any on the stage or Matthew Broderick on the screen.

This film is, simply put, hilarious and brilliant.