Movie Reviews: Silent Movie and The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ Smarter Brother

Two films for you this time, because I know you’re all in withdrawal from any recent movie reviews of mine. The first is Mel Brooks’ Silent Movie. This is a film I’d heard the title of many times, but never really knew what it was about. For those of you who fall into my boat, this is a silent movie. Meaning they don’t talk. (Well, technically, there’s one word in it, but still–pretty silent.) It’s about a big shot director who has an idea to make a new silent movie, and then tries to find big stars to be in it. As far as plot goes, there’s not much there, really. And while I enjoyed the film, the joke dragged on after a while, even with Marty Feldman and Dom DeLuise to keep things going. Two stars, but worth it if you’re a Brooks fan or in for some thoughtless fun.

The second movie follows Feldman and DeLuise over: Gene Wilder’s directorial debut, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes’ Smarter Brother, which I liked a fair bit, but once again dragged in spots. The movie is what it says in the title, with Gene Wilder playing the title role, and Feldman playing his Watson. Madeleine Kahn is in the film, too–which is a definite plus. It’s got a lot of random, goofy fun, and if you’re up for that sort of thing, then watch this movie. I imagine it would improve with repeat viewings, but for now, it’s a 2.5 star movie for me. Bonus points for the musical numbers.