"Blazing Saddles"

Badges??!!  We don't need no stinking badges!"  What follows is the first of several Mel Brooks films that we will be reviewing.  I have to say that I don't like everything that he has done, but the majority of his films crack me up.  "Blazing Saddles" like many Mel Brooks films are full of very simple humor, lots of slapstick and puns.  What he does so well, is poking fun at characters of different races and religions and backgrounds in his films, and yet in the end.., especially as in "Blazing Saddles" bringing all of these different backgrounds together to make for a happy ending.

Part of what I like about this film so much is getting to see Gene Wilder.  He is a comic genius, and has so many weird quirks that fit so well in the character that he portrays.  Mel Brooks is a great comedian as well, and his portrayal of the Governor in this film is a hilarious portrayal of the corrupt politician. 

If you aren't overly offended by things that might be considered un-PC, and enjoy laughing at slapstick and simple but funny jokes, this classic film is for you!

-David

Mel Brooks. He did this film. That's about all you need to know. If you know Mel Brooks at all. Blazing Saddles is a fun, quirky film that I do enjoy and that pokes fun at so much, you just have to roll your eyes or laugh. I do enjoy the music, such as a group of railroad workers singing, "I get no kick from cocaine..." or Lily Von Stook and her lovely rendition of, "I'm so tired." In fact, I feel pretty tired myself and David had to nudge me a couple times as I kept trying to fall asleep during the end of this film. Not because it's not interesting, but I've seen it a couple times, and let's face it, I'm tired. Gene Wilder is also in this film and is of course as clever as ever, as is the actor who plays the sheriff.

You do have to appreciate Mel Brooks humor, and if you are unfamiliar with him as a director, you may want to do some research first. He's also responsible for films such as The Producers and Young Frankenstein. All in all, good satire and at times, just plain fun.

-Bethany