Review: Judd Apatow’s HBO Doc Celebrates Mel Brooks at 99
Judd Apatow and Mike Bonfiglio’s latest HBO documentary, Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!, shines a light on the comedic legend Mel Brooks, celebrating his impressive life at 99 years old. This documentary follows the earlier successful projects from the duo, including The Zen Diaries of Garry Shandling and George Carlin’s American Dream, but with a significant difference: Brooks is alive to share his story.
Premiere Details
Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! aired at 8 p.m. on January 22 and 23. The documentary is notable for its emotional depth and humor.
Structure and Content
This two-part film, nearly four hours in length, provides a chronological look at Brooks’s life, beginning with his roots in Brooklyn. Viewers witness his journey from his military service in World War II to his days at the Borscht Belt and early collaborations with comedian Sid Caesar.
Key Life Events
- Born: 1926 in Brooklyn, New York
- Military Service: Served in World War II
- Significant Collaborations: Early work with Carl Reiner and career breakthrough with The Producers
- Marriage: Discusses his first marriage and his relationship with actress Anne Bancroft
The first part spans Brooks’s life until the success of Blazing Saddles, while the second part details his oeuvre post-Young Frankenstein. The documentary also addresses broader themes in Brooks’s work, including his lasting impact on comedy and culture.
Emotional Depth and Legacy
What sets this documentary apart is not just Brooks’s humor, but the poignant exploration of his relationships, particularly with Carl Reiner and Anne Bancroft. Although Brooks’s age naturally limits his physical storytelling, the film utilizes a treasure trove of archival footage showcasing his vibrant past.
Tributes from Peers
The film features interviews with notable figures, including:
- Cary Elwes
- Daphne Zuniga
- Dave Chappelle
- Matthew Broderick
- Nathan Lane
- Jerry Seinfeld
They share personal stories and the influence Brooks had on their own careers. The candid discussions about Brooks’s Jewish heritage further highlight his impact on comedy and film.
A Love Letter to Comedy
Overall, Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! serves as both tribute and reflection, celebrating a life filled with laughter and love. It showcases how significant friendships and relationships have shaped Brooks’s remarkable journey through nearly a century, reaffirming the notion that connections matter above all accolades.
For those familiar with Brooks’s films, this documentary promises the same joy and humor that fans have cherished through the years, along with an added layer of nostalgia and sentimentality.
