Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Ronny Graham | ... | Sondheim | |
Estelle Reiner | ... | Gruba | |
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Zale Kessler | ... | Bieler |
Jack Riley | ... | Dobish | |
Lewis J. Stadlen | ... | Lupinsky | |
George Gaynes | ... | Ravitch | |
George Wyner | ... | Ratkowski | |
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James 'Gypsy' Haake | ... | Sasha (as James Haake) |
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Scamp | ... | Mutki |
Christopher Lloyd | ... | Capt. Schultz | |
José Ferrer | ... | Prof. Siletski (as Jose Ferrer) | |
Charles Durning | ... | Col. Erhardt | |
Tim Matheson | ... | Lt. Andre Sobinski | |
Mel Brooks | ... | Dr. Frederick Bronski | |
Anne Bancroft | ... | Anna Bronski |
A bad Polish actor is just trying to make a living when what should intrude but World War II in the form of an invasion. His wife has the habit of entertaining young Polish officers while he's on stage which is also a source of depression to him. When one of her officers comes back on a Secret Mission, the actor takes charge and comes up with a plan for them to escape. Written by John Vogel <jlvogel@comcast.net>
Actually, when interviewed about this movie, Mel Brooks said it was an homage to Jack Benny. And if you look, the Bronskis live on Kubelsky Street, Benny Kubelsky is Jack Benny's real name. There are many other touches that also show Brooks' love for the original. Anne Bancroft is a true treat. Her comedic talents shine, she was truly a rare actress, and will be missed.
It was well done, with Mel Brooksian flair, and respectful of the original. I won't add comments about the acting, there are so many pros and cons at this point, one more won't make a difference. But if you have some free time, see BOTH of the movies. It's not sacrilege to like them both.