Racism in the Ranks of Rock Ridge

Read Time:3 Minute, 51 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Blazing Saddles
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Genre: Comedy, Western
Year Released: 1974, 2024 Warner Bros. 4K
Runtime: 1h 33m
Director(s): Mel Brooks
Writer(s): Mel Brooks, Norman Steinberg, Andrew Bergman, Richard Pryor, Alan Uger
Cast: Cleavon Little, Gene Wilder, Slim Pickens, Harvey Korman, Madeline Kahn, Mel Brooks, Burton Gilliam, Alex Karras
Where To Watch: available now, order your copy here: www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: Often described as a film that couldn’t be made today, I honestly have to question that statement after our newest presidential election… This film should be viewed through nostalgia glasses, but one that at the time pushed the limits, and with my hometown local, Richard Pryor, co-writing, I feel that it gives the film a pass. BLAZING SADDLES strikes a high note in the history of comedy, transforming the Western genre with its razor-sharp satire that targets racial stereotypes with the accuracy of a marksman. In the heart of Rock Ridge, we meet Bart (Cleavon Little,) an African-American sheriff who steps into the role of town protector just as the sinister Hedley Lamarr (Harvey Korman) schemes to obliterate it for his gain. The narrative tackles humor and unexpected alliances, notably with Jim, the infamous Waco Kid, played with flair by Gene Wilder, creating a comedic showdown as thoughtful as it is riotous.

At its release, BLAZING SADDLES created waves among critics, with its cheeky humor and keen social commentary dividing opinion. While some dismissed the film as a mere series of disconnected sketches, others praised its boldness and innovative approach. This led to a formidable box office performance that solidified its place in cinema history. I appreciate Warner Bros. realizing that cinema has a history, and while sometimes things age poorly due to changing times, it’s essential to preserve that history!

The cast's stellar performances are a cornerstone of the film's enduring appeal. Little’s portrayal of Sheriff Bart marries intelligence with charm, confronting the town's overt racial prejudices with a winning smile and quick wit. His chemistry with Wilder injects a multi-layered humor into every frame they share. Madeline Kahn, channeling the allure of Marlene Dietrich, brings down the house as Lili Von Shtupp, a role that not only parodies but also stands out on its merit, garnering her well-deserved accolades.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, BLAZING SADDLES was reissued in a spectacular 4K Ultra HD version, enhancing its visual and auditory experience. This version meticulously preserves the original film grain, bringing out the Old West's rich textures and dynamic colors with unprecedented clarity. The Dolby Atmos enhanced soundtrack revitalizes the film's soundscape, ensuring every line and pause is experienced with crystal-apparent precision.

This anniversary edition enriches its offering with "Inappropriate Inspiration: The BLAZING SADDLES Effect," a compelling 20-minute featurette that examines the film’s profound impact on contemporary comedy. Other extras from previous releases, including behind-the-scenes insights and Mel Brooks’s commentary, supplement this, providing long-time fans and new viewers with a deeper appreciation of the film’s creative process.

BLAZING SADDLES emerges as a pivotal creation in Mel Brooks’s filmography. It masterfully blends slapstick humor with biting wit to critique societal issues. Its pioneering approach to genre satire continues to resonate, challenging audiences to laugh and reflect on the constructed narratives of historical and cultural storytelling. This makes a perfect counterpart with Brooks' other classic of the same year, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN.

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[photo courtesy of WARNER BROS. PICTURES]

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