Blazing Saddles
[4K/Digital Code]
Did any 90s kid not love Robin Hood Men in Tights? I know it’s not considered Mel Brooks’ greatest film, but it’s certainly not his worst. In fact, now that he’s active again, there’s a whole new opportunity for him to ruin his legacy. He’s off to a great start with History of the World Part II. Up next on the chopping block is Spaceballs!
I think Young Frankenstein is considered his best movie, and I agree. But now on a rewatch, I think Blazing Saddles might be a close second. I didn’t get Blazing Saddles when I first watched it, or maybe I just couldn’t appreciate it. But now on a rewatch, it’s the casting what really gets me. Also, for all the bad rep this movie gets for being problematic (and there are some truly problematic moments), I’m kind of surprised how much more “sense” it makes on this second viewing, because it’s exclusively the bad guys who are the ones guilty of this offense. It kind of makes all the heroes shine a little more.
But yes, the casting. And what great casting it is.
I don’t think I see enough Slim Pickens in movies, and he’s perfect in the role of the slimy right-hand man. Of course, Harvey Korman is always the ace up Brooks’ sleeve able to play sinister with impeccable comedic timing. Gene Wilder serves as the perfect deputy to Sherrif Bart, doing everything he can to support the hero. Then there’s Cleavon Little himself, who is charismatic, smart, and fully in control like a Bugs Bunny character. He is every bit of a match of his opponents, both brains and brawn. It’s just such a great showdown.
Of course, none of this would work without a great and witty script, and what makes Blazing Saddles so great is that it knows how to make fun of Westerns, its tropes, and even its dialogue. This movie is full of memorable lines and fun word play and momentum. It’s entertaining whether you love Westerns or hate them and is as relevant now as it was 50 years ago.
