SiftPop

by Shane Conto, Staff Writer

What do you remember most about Gene Wilder? There is a strong chance that he is Willy Wonka to you. Honestly, he probably is for most people. His work with Mel Brooks, including The Producers, Blazing Saddles, and Young Frankenstein,is quite legendary. He was a successful stage performer, and there were some projects he directed himself. Then you have his second most famous collaboration… with Richard Pryor. No matter what the specific reason why you remember Wilder, he is one of the all-time greats in the world of comedy. 

What does Remembering Gene Wilder offer as its documentary experience? In many ways, director Ron Frank’s film is what you would expect from a biopic documentary. There is a basic linear narrative structure, as all of Wilder’s biggest accomplishments are highlighted. But the film is endlessly entertaining. The first hour or so is more of a spotlight of Wilder’s best work. And that is great, because his career was legendary, and learning the behind the scenes of his work is fascinating. But as the third act of this journey begins, you realize that we are about to be brought on an emotional journey into Wilder’s personal life. This progression works well and delivers in all things it attempts to accomplish.

Does the film deliver an interesting and engaging perspective on Wilder’s life? The structure of the narrative is linear and straight forward. What makes the storytelling more impactful is the crew of commentators. There are still plenty of archival interviews with Wilder himself, which help get into the mind of the man himself. But there is a strong mix of other commentators, who add depth. Brooks is a great addition, as he has so much professional perspective, but also a deeply emotional and personal connection as well. The likes of Alan Alda and Richard Pryor’s daughter help add depth to the narrative of Wilder’s life. You also get interesting details that may mold your perspective, such as information about Wilder’s Jewish-American experience. You can feel the love and authenticity of the scene that Wilder was a part of. 

What about the film leaves a lasting impression? The information and fun will certainly have their own impact, but it’s a story of love which resonate so deeply. Once we learn more about Wilder’s two marriages, we witness more of the human being and less of the screen persona that makes him a legend. The film’s tone and music evolves with the priorities of Wilder’s life. We see more of Wilder’s tragedies behind the scenes, as well as the unfortunate illness he battled at the end of his life. There is an emotional weight that delivers as the film wraps up its beautiful love letter to Wilder. 

Is Remembering Gene Wilder a worthwhile documentary experience? If you love film, this is a wonderful exploration of one of the greatest comedic performers of all time. If you love Wilder himself, this will take you on an unexpectedly emotional journey through his life. In the end, this film is an engrossing, entertaining, and emotional journey that can speak to just about anyone. You might leave with a bit of a heavy heart, but the most lasting effect will be your need to go and rewatch all of Wilder’s great films. 

Rating: Liked It 

Remembering Gene Wilder is currently playing in theaters

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You can read more from Shane Conto, and follow him on Instagram, and Letterboxd