# Young Frankenstein

> 1974 film directed by Mel Brooks

**Wikidata**: [Q651923](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q651923)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Young_Frankenstein)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/young-frankenstein

## Summary
Young Frankenstein is a 1974 American comedy horror film directed by Mel Brooks and starring Gene Wilder, Teri Garr, and Peter Boyle. It is a parody of classic horror films, particularly the Frankenstein series, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest comedy films of all time.

## Key Facts
- **Release Date:** December 15, 1974 (United States)
- **Director:** Mel Brooks
- **Genre:** Comedy horror, parody film
- **Country of Origin:** United States
- **Production Company:** 20th Century Fox
- **Runtime:** 106 minutes (original cut)
- **Box Office Gross (Worldwide):** $86,273,333
- **Budget:** $2.78 million
- **Starring:** Gene Wilder, Teri Garr, Peter Boyle, Marty Feldman, Cloris Leachman, Kenneth Mars, Richard Haydn, Arthur Malet, Oscar Beregi Jr.
- **Based on:** Classic horror films, particularly Frankenstein (1931)
- **Notable Awards/Nominations:**
  - Nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Adapted Screenplay (Wilder & Brooks), Best Sound (Arthur Piantadosi, Les Fresholtz, Dick Alexander, Jim Webb)
  - Winner of multiple Saturn Awards: Best Horror Film, Best Director (Mel Brooks), Best Supporting Actor (Marty Feldman), Best Make-up
- **Cultural Recognition:**
  - Selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2003
  - Ranked #13 on the American Film Institute's 100 Years...100 Laughs list
- **Cast Notable For:**
  - Teri Garr played Inga, her breakout role
  - Gene Wilder played Dr. Frederick Frankenstein
- **Mel Brooks' Involvement:**
  - Also directed *The Producers* (1967) and *Blazing Saddles* (1974)
  - Co-wrote the screenplay with Gene Wilder
- **Languages:**
  - Original language: English
  - Translated and dubbed versions available in multiple languages
- **IMDb ID:** tt0072431
- **Wikidata ID:** Q200092

## FAQs

**What is *Young Frankenstein* about?**  
*Young Frankenstein* is a parody of classic horror films, especially the 1931 film *Frankenstein*. It follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (Gene Wilder), the grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, who inherits his family's estate and becomes obsessed with creating life. The film blends horror and comedy, using black-and-white cinematography and classic film techniques to enhance its nostalgic tone.

**Who directed *Young Frankenstein* and who starred in it?**  
The film was directed by Mel Brooks, a legendary American filmmaker known for *The Producers* and *Blazing Saddles*. The main cast includes Gene Wilder as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, Teri Garr as Inga, Peter Boyle as The Monster, Marty Feldman as Igor, and Cloris Leachman as Frau Blücher.

**What awards and recognition has *Young Frankenstein* received?**  
*Young Frankenstein* was nominated for two Academy Awards: Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound. It won several Saturn Awards, including Best Horror Film, Best Director (Mel Brooks), Best Supporting Actor (Marty Feldman), and Best Make-up. In 2003, it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress.

**What is the cultural impact of *Young Frankenstein*?**  
The film is considered one of the greatest comedy films of all time. It is praised for its meticulous homage to Universal's classic horror films and its sharp, witty writing. It has influenced countless filmmakers and comedians and remains a beloved cult classic. It was ranked #13 on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 funniest American films.

**Is *Young Frankenstein* based on a book or a previous film?**  
No, *Young Frankenstein* is not based on a book. It is an original screenplay written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder. However, it is heavily inspired by the 1931 film *Frankenstein*, directed by James Whale, and borrows visual and thematic elements from classic horror films of that era.

**What is the runtime and box office performance of *Young Frankenstein*?**  
The film has a runtime of 106 minutes. It grossed approximately $86.3 million worldwide and had a production budget of $2.78 million, making it a major commercial success.

**What makes *Young Frankenstein* unique compared to other comedies?**  
Unlike many comedies, *Young Frankenstein* is shot in black-and-white and uses classic film techniques to mimic the style of 1930s horror films. Its humor is both visual and verbal, relying on precise timing, physical comedy, and clever references to the horror genre. The film balances parody with genuine affection for its source material.

## Why It Matters
*Young Frankenstein* is significant for its masterful blend of horror and comedy, paying homage to the classic Universal horror films while delivering sharp, timeless humor. It stands as a landmark in American cinema, showcasing Mel Brooks' genius in genre parody and Gene Wilder’s iconic performance. The film’s enduring popularity, critical acclaim, and cultural impact have solidified its place in film history. It influenced a generation of filmmakers and remains a benchmark for satirical storytelling.

## Notable For
- Being one of the greatest comedy films of all time
- Winning multiple Saturn Awards, including Best Horror Film and Best Director
- Being selected for preservation in the National Film Registry
- Featuring an iconic black-and-white cinematography style reminiscent of 1930s horror films
- Showcasing Gene Wilder’s memorable performance as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein
- Including Teri Garr’s breakout role as Inga
- Being co-written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder
- Incorporating classic horror film techniques and references
- Achieving both critical and commercial success with a modest budget
- Being ranked #13 on the American Film Institute’s 100 Years...100 Laughs list
- Influencing generations of comedians and filmmakers
- Being a defining work in Mel Brooks’ filmography

## Body

### Production and Release
*Young Frankenstein* was produced by 20th Century Fox and released in the United States on December 15, 1974. The film was shot in black-and-white to emulate the visual style of 1930s horror films. It was a commercial success, grossing over $86 million worldwide on a budget of $2.78 million. The film was co-written and directed by Mel Brooks, with Gene Wilder starring as the lead and co-writing the screenplay.

### Genre and Style
The film is classified as a **comedy horror** and a **parody film**, blending elements of horror, science fiction, and comedy. It pays homage to the classic Universal horror films, particularly *Frankenstein* (1931), through its cinematography, set design, and narrative structure. The film’s tone is both reverent and satirical, combining slapstick, visual gags, and witty dialogue.

### Cast and Characters
- **Gene Wilder** as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein – A descendant of Victor Frankenstein who becomes obsessed with his grandfather’s work.
- **Teri Garr** as Inga – Dr. Frankenstein’s assistant and love interest.
- **Peter Boyle** as The Monster – A reanimated corpse who becomes the central figure of the story.
- **Marty Feldman** as Igor – Dr. Frankenstein’s hunchbacked assistant.
- **Cloris Leachman** as Frau Blücher – The housekeeper with a mysterious hold over horses.
- **Kenneth Mars** as Inspector Kemp – A scientist and ally of Dr. Frankenstein.
- **Richard Haydn** as Herr Fronkonsteen – Dr. Frankenstein’s former colleague.

### Awards and Recognition
*Young Frankenstein* received critical acclaim and several awards:
- **Academy Awards:**
  - Nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay (Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder)
  - Nominated for Best Sound
- **Saturn Awards:**
  - Winner: Best Horror Film, Best Director (Mel Brooks), Best Supporting Actor (Marty Feldman), Best Make-up
- **National Film Registry:** Selected for preservation in 2003 by the Library of Congress for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

### Cultural Impact
The film is widely regarded as one of the greatest comedy films ever made. It was ranked #13 on the American Film Institute’s list of the 100 funniest American films. Its influence extends to modern comedy and horror, inspiring filmmakers and comedians alike. The film’s iconic scenes, such as the "Puttin' on the Ritz" musical number and the "Abby Normal" brain scene, remain popular in film culture.

### Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder Collaboration
Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder co-wrote the screenplay, with Wilder also starring as the lead. Their collaboration resulted in a film that balanced parody with genuine affection for the horror genre. Brooks’ direction brought the film’s comedic elements to life, while Wilder’s performance added depth and nuance to the character of Dr. Frankenstein.

### Legacy and Influence
*Young Frankenstein* continues to be celebrated for its clever writing, memorable performances, and homage to classic cinema. It has inspired countless parodies and homages and remains a staple of American comedy. The film’s success solidified Mel Brooks’ reputation as a master of genre parody and Gene Wilder’s status as an iconic comedic actor.

### Related Entities
- **20th Century Fox:** The production company behind the film.
- **National Film Registry:** The film was added to the registry in 2003.
- **Saturn Awards:** Recognized the film in multiple categories.
- **Academy Awards:** Nominated in two categories.
- **Universal Horror Films:** The primary inspiration for the film’s style and tone.

### Film Techniques and Homage
The film’s black-and-white cinematography, use of classic horror tropes, and meticulous attention to period detail pay homage to the golden age of horror cinema. It includes references to *Frankenstein*, *Bride of Frankenstein*, and *The Phantom of the Opera*, among others. The film’s visual and narrative style reflects a deep respect for its source material while delivering sharp, satirical commentary.

### Box Office and Reception
With a budget of $2.78 million, *Young Frankenstein* grossed over $86 million worldwide. It was praised by critics and audiences alike for its humor, performances, and homage to classic horror films. The film’s success led to its inclusion in the National Film Registry and its recognition by the American Film Institute.

### Conclusion
*Young Frankenstein* stands as a masterpiece of comedy and horror, blending genre parody with heartfelt homage. Its influence on film culture, critical acclaim, and enduring popularity make it a defining work in American cinema. The collaboration between Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder produced a film that continues to entertain and inspire.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/)
2. [Source](http://stopklatka.pl/film/mlody-frankenstein)
3. [Source](https://www.filmaffinity.com/en/film367692.html)
4. [Source](http://www.allocine.fr/film/fichefilm_gen_cfilm=556.html)
5. [Source](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/fullcredits)
6. [Source](https://nebulas.sfwa.org/award/best-script/)
7. [Source](http://www.saturnawards.org/The-Saturn-Awards-Past-Winners.php?category=3&year=1974#b)
8. [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/awards)
9. IMDb
10. The Movie Database
11. [Source](https://www.loc.gov/programs/national-film-preservation-board/film-registry/complete-national-film-registry-listing/)
12. Young Frankenstein. Rotten Tomatoes
13. Freebase Data Dumps
14. [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/releaseinfo/)
15. [IMDb](http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/releaseinfo)
16. Young Frankenstein
17. [Source](https://www.neontommy.com/news/2014/10/7-movies-filmed-usc.html)
18. [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0072431/parentalguide)
19. [Box Office Mojo](https://www.boxofficemojo.com/title/tt0072431/)
20. Kinopoisk
21. [Source](https://www.kijkwijzer.nl/films/young-frankenstein/)
22. terjesztesre_kerulo_filmalkotasok_nyilvantartasa.xlsx
23. List of film licenses issued from 1945 to 2020
24. [Source](https://www.cnc.fr/professionnels/visas-et-classification/44015)
25. Online-Filmdatenbank
26. Quora
27. Bechdel Test Movie List
28. mymovies.it
29. Danish Film Database
30. TheTVDB
31. Trakt.tv
32. FilmVandaag.nl