Blazing Saddles (1974) – “Blazing Saddles” is a satirical comedy-Western film that follows the story of Bart (played by Cleavon Little), a black railroad worker who becomes the first black sheriff of Rock Ridge. The town’s corrupt attorney general, Hedley Lamarr (played by Harvey Korman), plans to destroy the town to make way for a new railroad, but Bart teams up with an eccentric and alcoholic gunslinger, Jim (played by Gene Wilder), to save the day and protect the town from Lamarr’s nefarious schemes.
Director: Mel Brooks. Other films he is known for include “Young Frankenstein” (1974), “The Producers” (1967), and “Spaceballs” (1987).
Writer: Mel Brooks (along with co-writer Richard Pryor). Other films Mel Brooks is known for include “Young Frankenstein” (1974), “The Producers” (1967), and “History of the World, Part I” (1981). Richard Pryor, who contributed to the writing but was uncredited, is also known for his stand-up comedy and other films like “Stir Crazy” (1980) and “Silver Streak” (1976).
Release Date: February 7, 1974.
Domestic Box Office: The domestic box office gross for “Blazing Saddles” was approximately $119.5 million.
Cast:
- Cleavon Little as Bart. Other films he is known for: “Vanishing Point” (1971), “Once Bitten” (1985).
- Gene Wilder as Jim, the Waco Kid. Other films he is known for: “Young Frankenstein” (1974), “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971), “Stir Crazy” (1980).
- Harvey Korman as Hedley Lamarr. Other films he is known for: “High Anxiety” (1977), “History of the World, Part I” (1981).
- Slim Pickens as Taggart. Other films he is known for: “Dr. Strangelove” (1964), “The Getaway” (1972).
- Madeline Kahn as Lili Von Shtupp. Other films she is known for: “Young Frankenstein” (1974), “Paper Moon” (1973).
“Excuse me while I whip this out.” Bart
Cinematic Importance: Blazing Saddles (1974) is regarded as a groundbreaking and influential comedy film. It stood out for its daring and unapologetic satire, taking on sensitive racial topics in a way that was rare for its time. The film pushed the boundaries of comedy, breaking taboos and challenging social norms. Mel Brooks’s witty and irreverent humor, coupled with the talented ensemble cast, resulted in a film that continues to be celebrated and quoted by fans decades after its release. “Blazing Saddles” remains a classic example of how comedy can be used to address serious issues while providing laughter and entertainment, making it a significant and iconic piece of cinema history.
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