Celebrating Gene Wilder's Top 5 Best Movie Performances
As one of the most beloved comedic actors of all time, Gene Wilder was a master of dry wit and amusing physical comedy. From his iconic roles in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory to Blazing Saddles, Wilder brought an insanely awesome energy to every character he played.
Although it’s been several years since Gene Wilder's passing, his body of work continues to be a source of joy, laughs, and inspiration. One other thing I loved about Wilder and his performances, he could transition effortlessly between drama and comedy. His performances were always unique and they’re unforgettable. Here’s a list of some of Wilder’s best performances!
Young Frankenstein (1974) - Young Frankenstein is widely considered to be one of the greatest comedies ever made, and it’s no surprise why. Not only did Wilder write the screenplay, but his performance as the titular character is nothing short of brilliant. He brings a perfect blend of comedy and horror to the role, creating an unforgettable character. In the film, he plays an earnest scientist who is determined to prove that his grandfather's theories on reanimation are correct! His sense of deadpan humor and impeccable comic timing make this performance both hilarious and endearing.
Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (1971) – Who could forget Gene Wilder’s star-making turn as Willy Wonka? This is probably Wilder's best-known role. As the eccentric chocolatier who leads five children on a magical and horrific tour through his factory, Wilder brings life to every scene he’s in with his hilarious deadpan delivery and infectious enthusiasm. He brought a wonderful childlike spirit to the role, whch is what I loved most about the character. A truly legendary performance!
Blazing Saddles (1974) – Here’s yet another incredible collaboration between Brooks and Wilder that resulted in this hilarious Western spoof that follows Sheriff Bart (Cleavon Little), a black lawman tasked with keeping the peace in Rock Ridge—a frontier town plagued by political corruption. Here, Wilder plays Jim, aka “The Waco Kid”—a gunslinger who helps Bart out when all hope seems lost. The chemistry between these two actors was undeniable; they had an obvious rapport that fueled some of the funniest scenes in the film! This is one of Wilder’s funniest performances!
The Producers (1968) - The Producers is another classic comedy by Mel Brooks that Wilder starred in. This time around, he plays Leo Bloom, an accountant who teams up with Max Bialystock (Zero Mostel) for a wild scheme to make money on Broadway by producing a flop musical. His performance here is full of charm and charisma, and it fits perfectly for the zany antics in the story. This is one of Wilders earliest roles, but you can already see the trademark wit and charm that would come to define his career.
Stir Crazy (1980) – This cult classic stars Wilder and Richard Pryor as two friends who are wrongfully sent to prison for a crime they didn't commit—and then must figure out how to escape. From their misadventures behind bars to their wacky attempt at freedom on the outside, this movie is filled with hilarious moments from start to finish thanks largely in part to Wilder’s great performance as Skip Donahue, who makes up one half of an unforgettable comedic duo!
Whether you love slapstick or sharp wit, there's something for everyone in Gene Wilder's extensive filmography. His unique blend of humor will live on foreverthrough his unforgettable performances listed above—and several other projects! So put on your favorite Gene Wilder movie tonight and relive some classic comedy gold.