My Favourite Gene Wilder Movies

As many other movie fans, I was very saddened by the death of actor, director and writer Gene Wilder last Monday. Sometimes, you feel like some people will live forever, and will never stop creating.

I first saw Wilder in Blazing Saddles all the way back in the 1990's, and his movies have always been a warm and welcome presence in my life. He surprised me with his versatility as an actor and charmed me with his endless charisma.

Today, I want to share with you my favourite movies that star Gene Wilder.

Blazing Saddles

"My name is Jim but most people call me... Jim."

To ruin a western town, a corrupt political boss appoints a black sheriff, who promptly becomes his most formidable adversary.

This was one of the first American comedies I have seen as a child. I loved it. It was funny, silly, clever, dirty and daring. And how can I not mention the amazing chemistry between Wilder and the talented Cleavon Little?

See No Evil, Hear No Evil

"Why don't you look me in the eye and say that?"

Dave is deaf, and Wally is blind. They witness a murder, but it was Dave who was looking at her, and Wally who was listening.

Not the best comedy. Not even the funniest. But Wilder's and Richard Pryor's performances make it a very enjoyable watch.

The Producers

"I'm in pain and I'm wet and I'm still hysterical!"

Producers Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom make money by producing a sure-fire flop.

Mel Brook's first feature film, that's also not a parody. Wilder is just endearing as Leo Bloom, the insecure and neurotic accountant.

Young Frankenstein

"My grandfather's work was doo-doo!"

An American grandson of the infamous scientist, struggling to prove that he is not as insane as people believe, is invited to Transylvania, where he discovers the process that reanimates a dead body.

One of the best Mel Brooks movies (did they know how to make a good parody back in the day, or what?), and possibly the best of Gene Wilder's performances.

These are my picks. I took the plot summaries from the IMDB and the pictures from Wikipedia.

Rest in peace, Doctor Fronknesteen.

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