Young Frankenstein

What’s the Story?

After denouncing his grandfather's work as "doo doo," Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) receives word that he's inherited his famous ancestor's Transylvanian castle. There, with the help of his lab assistant Inga (Teri Garr) and pop-eyed hunchback Igor (Marty Feldman), he discovers a secret library containing his grandfather Victor's notes on how to bring the dead to life. The temptation is too great to pass up. In the renowned Frankenstein laboratory, young Frederick creates his own monster (Peter Boyle) and harnesses the power of an electrical storm to bring him to life.

Is It Any Good?

Mel Brooks fans will rejoice at the re-release of one of his funniest films. Sure the gags are lame, and the script is almost infantile, but if you thought YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN was funny in 1974, you're just as likely to get a kick out of it today. There's an unembarrassed corniness about the movie that generates plenty of belly laughs. The monster's "Puttin' on the Ritz" number will even squeeze smiles out of those not inclined towards Brooks' brand of humor.

The vaguely smutty jokes and sight gags will go over well with the teen crowd, but the comic talents at work here will appeal to all ages. Marty Feldman, Teri Garr, Madeline Kahn, Cloris Leachman, and Gene Hackman comprise a comedy's dream cast. Peter Boyle brings an unexpected touch of dignity to the monster, and Gene Wilder is as charming and manic as he was in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.