Mel Brooks Films Ranked from Good to Classic

      Here is a ranking of all Mel Brooks movies from least funny to most hilarious — including classics like Blazing Saddles, Spaceballs, Young Frankenstein, and all the others.

      From The Producers (discussed below) to Spaceballs, Brooks — who recently turned 99 — has delivered some of the most hilarious films across several generations.

      Have a different opinion on our rankings? Feel free to share in the comments.

      Credit: Embassy Pictures

      Mel Brooks Overview

      Credit: Warner Bros.

      Before creating timeless films like Blazing Saddles (shown above), Brooks was a vital comedy writer during the early days of television, including work for the iconic Sid Caesar. He collaborated with lifelong friend Carl Reiner on brilliant projects such as The 2,000 Year Old Man and co-created the spy spoof sitcom Get Smart.

      However, Mel Brooks, now 99, is best known for his films — nearly all of which are parodies of cherished movie genres, ranging from silent films to monster movies to Westerns. Note that we will only include movies he directed, excluding those in which he appeared for others.

      Here are all 11 Mel Brooks films, ranked from least entertaining to most hilarious.

      11 — Life Stinks (1991)

      MGM

      Notably, Life Stinks is not a parody. While Mel Brooks directed and starred in it, the film lacks the classic fourth wall breaks or spoof humor he is known for. Despite Brooks’ attempt at social commentary, which he executed more effectively in Blazing Saddles, the movie was a flop.

      In this film, Brooks portrays a greedy businessman who wagers that he can survive on the streets with no money for 30 days. If he succeeds, he gets to demolish a Los Angeles neighborhood.

      It's somewhat reminiscent of Trading Places but lacks the energetic presence of Eddie Murphy. To Brooks’ credit, crafting a humorous take on homelessness is undeniably challenging.

      10 — Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993)

      20th Century Fox

      Life Stinks may not have many defenders, but Robin Hood: Men in Tights certainly does. Nonetheless, it remains an inconsistent Brooks comedy, leaning heavily into silliness even by his standards.

      There are some solid jokes and a few clever jabs at Kevin Costner’s portrayal of Robin Hood. However, while some jokes land, others fall flat.

      Men in Tights is also significant for being the film debut of Dave Chappelle, who plays Ahchoo, a member of Robin's band. Cary Elwes, as always, is enjoyable to watch.

      9 — Dracula: Dead and Loving It (1995)

      Columbia

      Dracula: Dead and Loving It is Brooks’ most recent film and features two iconic figures of parody films — the pairing of Brooks with Leslie Nielsen, known for his roles in the Zucker-Abrams-Zucker’s beloved Airplane! and Naked Gun films, makes this one worth seeing.

      Do they overact? Certainly, as they chew through the scenery. While it's not exactly outstanding, there are glimpses of enjoyment in the film.

      It's worth mentioning that we are only ranking the films directed by Brooks, thus excluding 1983’s To Be Or Not to Be, in which he produced and starred alongside Anne Bancroft, the love of his life.

      8 — The Twelve Chairs (1970)

      UMC Pictures

      Brooks is personally fond of The Twelve Chairs. Following his directorial debut, he took a chance on adapting a Russian satire. The Twelve Chairs is a frequently adapted Russian novel from 1928, but it is not well-known in the Americas. Perhaps this lack of recognition contributed to its brief release.

      The film features a notable cast that includes Dom DeLuise and Frank Langella, with Brooks himself taking a small role. He also lightens the book’s tone to ensure a more uplifting conclusion.

      Though we can't comment on the novel, credit is due to Brooks for attempting to parody material that was likely unfamiliar to many viewers.

      7 — Silent Movie (1976)

      20th Century Fox

      Remember when The Artist won Best Picture? That film, which provides a comedic take on the silent film era and the transition to “talkies,” was shot in homage to those classic films.

      Silent Movie beat The Artist to the punch, further exaggerating the style of 1920s films. Of course, Brooks infused his signature humor, which sometimes undermines the authenticity.

      The film follows a director in the 1970s who aims to create a silent film, providing a humorous critique of the film industry. The cast includes Brooks as "Mel Funn," Marty Feldman as "Marty Eggs," and Anne Bancroft appears as herself, with Burt Reynolds showing up as Burt Reynolds in a humorous shower scene.

      Plus, the legendary Marcel Marceau makes a speaking appearance, a classic Mel Brooks gag.

      6 — History of the World, Part I (1981)

      20th Century Fox

      Sketch comedy can often be