Mel Brooks at 99: HBO’s Epic Tribute Reviewed
Mel Brooks finally gets the full documentary treatment in HBO’s two-part special. Is this deep dive into the comedy legend’s life and work worth your time? Find out what makes this tribute both exhaustive and a bit much.
It’s hard to believe it’s taken nearly a hundred years for someone to put together a proper documentary on Mel Brooks, one of the most influential figures in comedy and film. Directed by Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio, Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! is a detailed, sometimes overstuffed, look at the bloke behind some of the most iconic comedies ever made.
Brooks’ Journey from Writer to Comedy Icon
This two-parter charts Brooks’ path from his early days as a joke writer to his breakthrough as a director with The Producers, and on to a string of classics like Blazing Saddles and Spaceballs. The film covers every corner of his career, giving punters a front-row seat to the making of some of the funniest films ever to hit the big screen. There’s plenty here for die-hard fans, but the sheer amount of detail might be a bit much for the casual viewer.
HBO’s latest documentary follows a familiar format: talking heads, old photos, and film clips. While it’s thorough, the length is noticeable, and it’s clear the main audience is those with a real interest in the craft of comedy. Apatow’s previous work on docs about George Carlin and Garry Shandling set the tone, and this one sticks to the same playbook.
Insights and Interviews: A Who’s Who of Comedy
The real drawcard is the insight into Brooks as an artist. Even if you’ve seen all his films, you’ll likely pick up a few new stories or behind-the-scenes tidbits. The documentary brings together a line-up of comedians and actors, from Ben Stiller and Adam Sandler to Sarah Silverman and the late Rob Reiner, all keen to share how Brooks shaped their own work or inspired them to get into comedy in the first place.
These interviews do a solid job of highlighting Brooks’ impact and the legacy he’s built over decades. There’s a genuine sense of admiration, and the stories from those who worked with him or were influenced by him add plenty of colour to the film.
What’s Missing Beneath the Surface
Despite the exhaustive coverage of Brooks’ professional life, the documentary doesn’t dig too deeply into his personal world. With a subject as prolific as Brooks, it’s understandable that the focus stays on his work, but after nearly four hours, you might find yourself wanting a bit more about the man behind the camera.
The style of the film is pretty straightforward—nothing too flashy or experimental. While Brooks’ own humour and personality carry much of the doco, there’s a sense that the directors missed a chance to inject a bit more playfulness or take the mickey in a way that would’ve matched Brooks’ own style.
For Fans and Comedy Buffs Alike
In the end, Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! is a treat for anyone keen to revisit their favourite comedies or learn a bit more about how they came to be. It’s a fitting nod to a comedy legend, and for those who appreciate a deep dive, it delivers the goods—even if it does go on a bit.
“Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!” premieres on HBO in two parts on January 22 and January 23 at 8pm ET/PT.