REMEMBERING GENE WILDER 🤩 

REMEMBERING GENE WILDER was the opening night film for the 20th Anniversary Gala of Spokane’s Jewish Film Festival. I was a member of the selection committee who chose the movies presented this year. I watched 43 films before making our decision. Gene Wilder’s inspiring, biographical documentary was a no-brainer. 

REMEMBERING GENE WILDER is a tribute to the iconic actor, director, and screenwriter who is known all over the world for his comic genius. The film is an affectionate look both on camera and behind the scenes that includes clips from some of his most beloved roles in cherished classics such as YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, THE PRODUCERS, SILVER STREAK, BLAZING SADDLES, THE FRISCO KID, and of course, WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY. There are rare, never seen interviews with Mel Brooks, Karen Wilder, (his wife) Alan Alda, Carol Kane, Gene Hackman, Harry Connick Jr., Eric McCormack, and Dick Cavett. It is told from Gene’s perspective as well and in his own voice. He was simply brilliant. 

This film created a 92-minute special, intimate look at the many layers of what made Gene Wilder who he was to his family, friends, and fans around the globe. He was one of a kind who could make audiences laugh, giggle, smile, and cry at his crazy antics, wild hair, and huge, popping eyes. The dynamic duo of Mel Brooks and Wilder will never be repeated again. Their pairing was a match made in heaven. All Mel had to say in YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN was “blue light (take it up a notch) or red light (go crazy or Wilder). Great directions for a comic actor.  

REMEMBERING GENE WILDER was the perfect start to the Jewish Film Festival. He was a warm-hearted mensch who captivated the world and will be beloved and always remembered.