Friday, September 2, 2016

Top 10 Friday... The Films of Gene Wilder

We return to our Top 10 Friday with a look at the films of the incomparable Gene Wilder, who passed away Aug. 29, 2016, at the age of 83.


Wilder teamed with director Mel Brooks for some memorable comedies, and worked alongside funnyman Richard Pryor for several others. Wilder was captivating on his own, but when he teamed with Brooks, Pryor or Gilda Radner...? Look out folks, fireworks. Before we dive into the Wilder library, let's take one last look at a few Wilder-related collectibles.

Young Frankenstein Frederick figure, Sideshow Toys


Frederick Young Frankenstein figure by Sideshow  

This limited edition figure from Sideshow stands 12" tall and presents Wilder's character, Frederick, in all his black-and-white glory. The edition size is only 7,500 and the figure has become increasingly rare and can go for more than $150 on the secondary market.

Dr. Frederick Frankenstein Vinyl Idolz figure, Funko


 
Dr. Frankenstein Vinyl Idolz figure by Funko  

Funko produced this Vinyl Idolz figure of Dr. Frankenstein alongside other characters from Mel Brooks' classic comedy, "Young Frankenstein." You can find the good doctor for about $20-$30 at a local comic store or online.

Blazing Saddles print, Spoke Art/Brandon Schaefer (2012)
 
 
Blazing Saddles print by Spoke Art/Brandon Schaefer  

Though Wilder isn't spotlighted in this print by artist Brandon Schaefer, it's a worthy addition to the collection of any Wilder fan. The limited edition print was done for Spoke Art and San Francisco's Castro Theatre to promote a screening of the film in July 2012. The 18" X 24" giclee was limited to 120 prints and signed/numbered by Schaefer. Originally sold for $40, but far more valuable now and a very tough find.

And as we wish a fond farewell and rest-in-peace to the great Gene Wilder, let's look at some of his most memorable roles. From the CollecTwins, here's our...

Top 10 Gene Wilder Movies


10. Haunted Honeymoon (1986)


"Haunted Honeymoon"
Starring Gene Wilder, Gilda Radner and Dom DeLuise. Directed by Gene Wilder.

9. The Frisco Kid (1979)


"The Frisco Kid"
Starring Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford. Directed by Robert Aldrich.

8. Silver Streak (1976)


"Silver Streak"
Starring Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor. Directed by Arthur Hiller.

7. Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972)


"Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask"
Starring Woody Allen, Tony Randall and Gene Wilder. Directed by Woody Allen.

6. See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989)


"See No Evil, Hear No Evil"
Starring Gene Wilder, Richard Pryor and Kevin Spacey. Directed by Arthur Hiller.

5. Stir Crazy (1980)


"Stir Crazy"
Starring Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor. Directed by Sidney Poitier.

4. The Producers (1967)


"The Producers"
Starring Gene Wilder and Zero Mostel. Directed by Mel Brooks.

3. Blazing Saddles (1974)


"Blazing Saddles"
Starring Cleavon Little, Gene Wilder and Slim Pickens. Directed by Mel Brooks.

2. Young Frankenstein (1974)


"Young Frankenstein"
Starring Gene Wilder, Peter Boyle and Madeline Kahn. Directed by Mel Brooks.

1. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)


"Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory"
Starring Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum and Jack Albertson. Directed by Mel Stuart.

For those who haven't had a chance to see all of the Wilder films on this list, give one or two of them a view. We guarantee it'll be worth your time. Have a great weekend, folks, we'll see ya' on Monday!

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