Great Scene: “Young Frankenstein”

One of the most inspired comedic moments in a truly inspired film: The “Puttin’ on the Ritz” bit.

Ah, the old song-and-dance routine. A Hollywood staple. Images of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron swooping across the silver screen. And of course, that incomparable duo Gene Wilder and Peter Boyle from the fantastic comedy Young Frankenstein (1974). Adapted by Gene Wilder and Mel Brooks from Mary Shelly’s famous novel, the movie provides one send-up of horror movies after another including this great dance scene, where Wilder, playing Dr. Frankenstein, introduces his creation The Monster, played by Boyle, to a live theater audience:

Here’s the scene as it plays in the movie:

I happened to catch the last half of Young Frankenstein a few months ago. It still holds up. Definitely add it to your to-see list.

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