MOVIE REVIEW
Remembering Gene Wilder
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Genre: Biography, Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 32m
Director(s): Ron Frank
Writer(s): Glenn Kirschbaum
Where To Watch: opens in New York on March 15, 2024, and in Los Angeles on March 22, with national expansion to follow

RAVING REVIEW: When does a man become more than a myth or a legend? In REMEMBERING GENE WILDER, director Ron Frank masterfully crafts a heartfelt and intimate portrait of one of the film industry's most beloved figures. This biography stitches together a colorful mosaic of archival clips, personal interviews with stars like Mel Brooks, Alan Alda, and Carol Kane, and a treasure trove of memorable moments from Gene Wilder's illustrious career. It's a film that celebrates Wilder's contributions to comedy and cinema and peels back the layers to reveal the man behind the iconic roles. It is a vibrant homage and a poignant exploration of Wilder's enduring impact on fans and fellow creators alike. While I love the documentary genre, it’s films like this that define what they should be; this isn’t a clip show or recycled imagery; it’s a detailed examination of Wilder by those who knew him best.

The void left by Wilder's passing ignited a renewed appreciation for his art, further underlined by special screenings and discussions of his most memorable works. REMEMBERING GENE WILDER offers a fresh look at Wilder's collaborations with Mel Brooks, shedding light on how their joint creativity pushed the boundaries of comedy. We’re given more stories behind the unique stories and incredible coincidences that led to some of comedy’s greatest films being made.

Wilder's versatility shines through in the film, with his performances under Brooks' direction and his roles in movies that challenged norms. He did so with passion, purpose, and specific direction. His directorial endeavors and dynamic pairings with Richard Pryor are given their due, illustrating Wilder's broad talent and adventurous spirit in the entertainment world. From playing a deaf man in SEE NO EVIL, HEAR NO EVIL to a film like BLAZING SADDLES that could never get made today (with good reason.) Yet, these films were done with thought; even that long ago, they looked at the worlds they satirized and did so with respect, unlike anything at the time.

The film delves deep into Wilder's life story, including his battle with Alzheimer's, offering a narrative that celebrates his legacy beyond his career achievements. Through contributions from Julie Nimoy and David Knight and intimate anecdotes from Wilder's widow, Karen Boyer, viewers gain insight into the man behind the humor. The documentary adds a personal touch, incorporating audio excerpts from Wilder's memoirs, connecting audiences to his journey from the early days with Brooks to their iconic collaborations. While even Frank admits that there always seemed to be something more to Wilder, this film comes closer than ever to unveiling the man behind that smile.

Balancing the comedy with the heartfelt REMEMBERING GENE WILDER navigates Wilder's life gracefully. It pays tribute to his relationships, notably with Karen Boyer, who stood by him in his fight against Alzheimer's and reminisces about his time with Gilda Radner. This documentary is a moving tribute that ensures Wilder's laughter, talent, and warmth continue to inspire. A testament to his life and legacy, REMEMBERING GENE WILDER stands as a profound acknowledgment of Wilder's unforgettable impact on cinema and beyond, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.

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[photo courtesy of KINO LORBER]

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