Naomi Weisman is a Canadian-Australian and mother of three, who loves to ramble with her dog, cook for family and friends, and laugh whenever possible.
Remembering Gene Wilder is a heartfelt tribute to the legendary comedic actor's life and work. It features interviews with his friends, family, and colleagues and a behind-the-scenes look at some of his most iconic roles.
My family and I have shared countless moments of pure, unadulterated laughter—the kind that makes your belly ache and your eyes water. These moments were woven into the fabric of our lives through the movies and TV shows we watched together, like The Pink Panther with Peter Sellers, The Carole Burnett Show and the hilarious antics of Tim Conway and Harvey Korman, as well as the comedic team of Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder.
The bond between Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks is a testament to the power of friendship. Their meeting in the early 1960s sparked a connection that would endure, and their collaborations stand the test of time, albeit with some politically incorrect humor that we wouldn’t see produced today.
It’s difficult to pinpoint why Wilder has had such an enduring effect on me, but this documentary goes a long way in explaining why I have always loved him, through the stories and anecdotes told by people who knew and loved him, particularly Mel Brooks. This film paints a vivid picture of a man whose talent and kindness were as legendary as his on-screen performances.
For example, the way that Wilder embodied the character of Willy Wonka in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) is a case in point. The intensity in his eyes, his empathetic delivery, and the intellectual way he approached the lessons within the story still floor me to this day with their depth. Even as a kid, I felt his kindness through this movie.
Or, who can forget Dr. Frankenstein in Young Frankenstein (1974)? This classic collaboration between Brooks and Wilder is nothing short of legendary in my family. There are so many endearing characters and a multitude of one-liners thrown into the casual conversations that will make us smile or crack each other up. Throughout this film, it is obvious just how much fun the actors were having and just how much they cared for one another. This was my mother’s all-time favorite.
Through this documentary, I feel as though I know more about someone who has always been a part of my life and the lives of my kids. The heartfelt comments and relatable stories describing Wilder’s work life and personal life by people who knew him best, and the amazing interviews with Wilder himself left me feeling satisfied that the high regard that I have always held him in is completely justified.
His work has not only brought joy and laughter into my life but also helped to shape my sense of humor and my appreciation for the art of comedy. I've always admired his ability to deliver a punchline with perfect timing or turn a simple gesture into a hilarious moment.
If you are a fan of Gene Wilder I highly recommend this to you. It is absolutely delightful to watch.
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