Opened: December 15, 1974

Directed by: Mel Brooks

Starring: Gene Wilder, Peter Boyle, Marty Feldman, Cloris Leachman, Teri Garr, Kenneth Mars, Madeline Kahn, Richard Haydn & Gene Hackman

A screwball comedy based on Mary Shelley’s iconic novel, Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein is still enjoyable over 40 years after its release, though it may have a hard time charming younger generations.

After the death of his grandfather, the infamous Dr. Victor Frankenstein, Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder) is called back to Transylvania to inspect the property he inherited. Once his grandfather’s notes are discovered, he creates a new Monster (Peter Boyle) with the help of his lab assistants Inga (Terri Garr) and Igor (Marty Feldman).

The best comedy comes from supporting players Boyle, Feldman and Gene Hackman as the blind man. Boyle’s Monster is equal parts frightening and empathetic. He shines alongside Wilder in “Puttin’ on the Ritz.”

The film is over-the-top and ridiculous in many ways with today’s audiences maybe not understanding the humor.

Final say: Classic comedy. ★★★★☆