Great Movie Scenes: Young Frankenstein Puts on the Ritz

If you’re blue and you don’t know where to go to why don’t you go…watch Young Frankenstein. Mel Brooks‘ 1974 comedy masterpiece is perfect to watch any time of the year, but especially during the Halloween season due to its pitch perfect spoofing of Universal Monster classics. In a film packed with iconic moments, perhaps the greatest scene is the duet of the Irving Berlin classic “Putting on the Ritz” between Dr. Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fron-ken-steen” and portrayed by Gene Wilder) and his monstrous creation (brought to, er, life with skilled aplomb by Peter Boyle).

This scene is a masterclass on comedy that hasn’t lost a bit of its impact in the 45 years since Young Frankenstein debuted. Mind you, the song choice utilized here is no mistake. It’s the laugh equivalent ritzy ostentatious luxury, and that’s why it will forever cause joy among all who have the pleasure to view it!