“Young Frankenstein” should test current social theories that in our world of snark and irony, children understand satire and parody much earlier than they used to.
And if not, you as the parent still win, because “Young Frankenstein” is one of the funniest American comedies ever made. Who cares if the kids love it? You’ll nearly choke laughing.
Our pick is in part to honor the recent passing of Peter Boyle, who made his first big comic turn as the tuxedo-wearing monster for Mel Brooks’s hit 1974 parody. The family will recognize him from “Everybody Loves Raymond” reruns, but Boyle’s best lifetime work was his inspired Frankenstein turn opposite Gene Wilder.
So many great set pieces, too many to list in full: “My, what knockers,” and “Abby-normal, sir,” the “Puttin’ On the Ritz” scene, the metal-armed Inspector Kemp. Brooks spoofs so many Universal Pictures monster classics, and his own Vaudeville routines, there’s barely time to catch a breath. The Brooks movie is generous with its female comics too, including a luminously giddy Terri Garr and the acidic Madeline Kahn.
If your kids enjoy this one, they’re ready for thicker satirical fare: Monty Python’s “Life of Brian” or “The Holy Grail” should be next in your queue.
Each Tuesday, Michael Booth uncovers a movie gem for rewarding family entertainment. Reach him at mbooth@denverpost.com; find the Screen Team blog at denverpostbloghouse.com.
“Young Frankenstein”
Rated | PG for risque subject matter Most appealing | Children 9 or older
