Fresh Air The Making Of ‘Young Frankenstein’
21 snips
Oct 31, 2025 
Gene Wilder, the iconic actor and co-writer of Young Frankenstein, shares insights on crafting its hilarious scenes, including convincing Mel Brooks to include the musical number, 'Puttin' on the Ritz.' Mel Brooks reflects on his love for parodying genres and the creative process behind the film. Film critic Justin Chang shifts gears to review Begonia, highlighting its gripping performances and visual style. Together, they explore the blend of humor and horror that makes Young Frankenstein a timeless Halloween classic.
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Script Battles Yielding A Signature Scene
- Gene Wilder described writing daily while Mel Brooks reviewed and suggested changes, often arguing about scenes.
- A heated debate over the Puttin' On The Ritz number ended with Brooks reluctantly accepting it after Wilder insisted.
Why The Monster Sings And Dances
- Gene Wilder explained the plot reason for the Puttin' On The Ritz number: to show the creature could be civilized.
- He framed it as proof to Transylvania scientists that the creature could be a 'man about town.'
The Origins Of 'Walk This Way'
- Mel Brooks taught the 'walk this way' gag on set by directing Marty Feldman and Gene Wilder during filming.
- Brooks later explained it came from an old vaudeville routine about hemorrhoids.