Cast
View All
Mel Brooks
as Dr. Richard H. Thorndyke
Madeline Kahn
as Victoria Brisbane
Cloris Leachman
as Nurse Charlotte Diesel
Harvey Korman
as Dr. Charles Montague
Ron Carey
as Brophy
Howard Morris
as Professor Lilloman
Dick Van Patten
as Dr. Philip Wentworth
Jack Riley
as The Desk Clerk
Charlie Callas
as Cocker Spaniel
Ron Clark
as Zachary Cartwright III
Rudy De Luca
as 'Braces' - Killer
Barry Levinson
as Dennis - Bellboy
Lee Delano
as Norton
Albert Whitlock
as Arthur Brisbane
Billy Sands
as Customer
Crew
Director
- Mel Brooks
Writer
- Barry Levinson
- Rudy De Luca
- Mel Brooks
- Ron Clark
Producer
- Mel Brooks
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
High Anxiety represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Mystery/Thriller cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Mel Brooks brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1977, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of High Anxiety took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1951 individual shots.
- The costume department created over 299 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1977, when this film was released:
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- Disco music dominated popular culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While High Anxiety shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Murder by Contract, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, High Anxiety subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Love at First Bite and Deal of the Century explore similar territory, High Anxiety stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 25, 1977
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Budget: $4,015,000
- Revenue: $31,063,038
