It’s hard to deny that this is one of the best comedy films from the 1970s. I haven't really gotten into Mel Brooks’ work much, and I know him more for his reputation than for having actually seen his movies. So I figured it was time to watch this satirical film, which he directed. It centers on a man who is a descendant of the notorious German doctor and nobleman Dr. Frankenstein. After years of rejecting his family name and any connection to his grandfather, he’s summoned to the family estate for… well, the movie doesn't really explain why, but it turns out that it’s important for him to return, and that’s exactly what happens. Once there, he connects with the people living nearby and decides to investigate his grandfather’s attempts at bringing dead bodies back to life. As you can probably tell from this description, the script isn't really the film's strongest attribute; it has a flimsy plot and some issues with making sense. The movie requires certain characters to make specific choices, and they do so without considering whether those decisions are logical or believable. Of course, since it’s a comedy, that doesn’t matter much, and the absurdity contributes to the humor, but there were a couple of times when I wished things made more sense. Brooks' direction is fantastic and very well-executed. From a technical standpoint, the black-and-white cinematography really stands out; it seems deliberately intended to mimic the look of the classic Frankenstein films from the 1930s, starring Boris Karloff. The lighting is also great, as are the sets, costumes, and props. The dialogue, which sometimes feels improvised, works wonderfully, and the jokes are excellent, even the more risqué ones. As for the acting, Gene Wilder gives a truly inspired performance in one of his most memorable comedic roles. People will always remember him as Willie Wonka, certainly, but this film is right up there with that and deserves special recognition in his filmography. Alongside him, Marty Feldman delivers an incredible performance in what’s arguably his most famous movie. Peter Boyle and Cloris Leachman also deserve some credit.

Source on TMDB