39 Facts About The Movie High Anxiety

The movie High Anxiety is a 1977 comedy, directed by Mel Brooks.

The film was a parody of Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller films and was a commercial success upon its release.

High Anxiety was co-written by Mel Brooks, Ron Clark, Rudy De Luca, and Barry Levinson.

The screenplay was a collaborative effort that successfully captured the essence of Hitchcock’s signature style and injected it with comedic elements.

Mel Brooks starred in the film as the main character, Dr. Richard H. Thorndyke.

Brooks delivered a hilarious performance, showcasing his comedic talent and knack for physical comedy.

The film pays homage to several Hitchcock classics, including Psycho, Vertigo, and The Birds.

Brooks cleverly recreates iconic scenes and adds his own comedic twist to them, creating a unique viewing experience.

The movie’s title is a play on words, referring to both the state of extreme nervousness and Hitchcock’s iconic film genre.

This clever wordplay adds another layer of humor to the film’s overall concept.

High Anxiety features a memorable musical score composed by John Morris.

The score pays tribute to Hitchcock’s suspenseful music and adds an additional comedic element to the film.

The movie received generally positive reviews from critics.

Many praised Brooks’ ability to successfully blend comedy and homage to Hitchcock’s work, making High Anxiety an enjoyable experience for audiences.

High Anxiety was a box office success, grossing over $31 million worldwide.

The film’s popularity further solidified Brooks’ reputation as a talented filmmaker and comedian.

Mel Brooks considered High Anxiety to be one of his favorite films that he directed.

This statement speaks to the pride and joy Brooks had in creating a successful parody film that honored a legendary filmmaker like Hitchcock.

The movie received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

This recognition further showcased the impact and appeal of High Anxiety among audiences and industry professionals.

Several Hitchcock regulars made cameo appearances in the film.

Audiences were delighted to see familiar faces like Barry Levinson, Betty White, and Jack Riley, adding an extra layer of nostalgia to the viewing experience.

High Anxiety features some of Mel Brooks’ trademark comedic elements, including slapstick humor and witty dialogue.

Brooks’ unique comedic style shines through in the film, providing plenty of laughter and entertainment.

High Anxiety was filmed on location in Los Angeles and at Universal Studios.

The iconic settings added authenticity to the film and allowed Brooks to recreate some of Hitchcock’s most memorable scenes.

The movie was a commercial success upon its release, ranking as one of the top-grossing films of 1977.

High Anxiety’s popularity further solidified Brooks’ reputation as a comedic force in the industry.

Mel Brooks’ daughter, Stephanie Brooks, appeared in the film as a dancer.

This family connection added a personal touch to the project and showcased the collaborative nature of filmmaking.

Bernadette Peters portrayed one of the film’s main characters, Victoria Brisbane.

Peters’ performance added depth and charm to the film, further enhancing the comedic and romantic aspects of the storyline.

High Anxiety features several memorable comedic set pieces, including a scene set in a museum with Hitchcock-inspired exhibits.

This visually amusing sequence showcases Brooks’ attention to detail and his ability to incorporate humor into every aspect of the film.

The movie’s release coincided with Alfred Hitchcock’s 77th birthday.

This coincidence added an extra layer of significance to the film’s homage to the legendary filmmaker.

High Anxiety was nominated for two Saturn Awards.

The film received nominations for Best Actor (Mel Brooks) and Best Writing (Ron Clark, Rudy De Luca, and Barry Levinson).

Mel Brooks’ real-life fear of heights inspired the film’s Vertigo-inspired scenes.

This personal touch added an extra layer of authenticity to the film’s homage to Hitchcock.

High Anxiety features a memorable parody of the famous shower scene from Hitchcock’s Psycho.

Brooks’ comedic take on the iconic scene showcases his ability to blend homage and humor seamlessly.

The film’s dialogue is filled with witty one-liners and humorous exchanges.

Brooks’ sharp writing creates memorable moments and quotable lines throughout the movie.

High Anxiety was praised for its visual style, clever cinematography, and use of Hitchcock-inspired camera techniques.

The film’s technical elements added to the overall homage to Hitchcock, creating a visually stunning and entertaining experience.

The movie’s supporting cast includes talented actors such as Cloris Leachman, Harvey Korman, and Howard Morris.

Their performances contribute to the film’s comedic timing and add depth to the characters.

High Anxiety features a mix of physical and verbal comedy, appealing to a wide range of comedic tastes.

This variety keeps the film engaging and ensures there is something for every viewer to enjoy.

The movie’s humor is both clever and accessible, making it enjoyable for audiences of all ages.

Brooks’ ability to create comedy that resonates with different generations is one of the reasons for his enduring popularity.

High Anxiety marked Mel Brooks’ first foray into parodying a specific filmmaker’s work.

This unique approach added an extra layer of creativity and challenge to the project, setting it apart from other comedies of its time.

The film’s comedic pacing keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

Brooks’ understanding of comedic timing ensures that the jokes land effortlessly, resulting in continuous laughter throughout the film.

High Anxiety gained a cult following and is considered one of Mel Brooks’ most beloved films.

The movie’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless humor and its ability to captivate audiences decades after its release.

The film’s release was accompanied by a successful marketing campaign that capitalized on the Hitchcock homage.

The clever promotional material highlighted the film’s comedic take on iconic Hitchcock elements and generated buzz among audiences.

High Anxiety remains a staple in the genre of parody films, inspiring future filmmakers to blend comedy with homages to renowned filmmakers.

The movie’s impact on the comedy genre can still be felt today, as it continues to influence and entertain new generations of viewers.

The movie’s soundtrack features a catchy theme song titled “High Anxiety” performed by actress Madeline Kahn.

The song perfectly captures the film’s comedic tone and adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the viewing experience.

Mel Brooks’ attention to detail in recreating Hitchcock’s visual style earned him praise from both fans and film critics.

The meticulousness in capturing the essence of Hitchcock’s films showcases Brooks’ passion for the project and his commitment to creating an authentic parody.

High Anxiety takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of laughter, suspense, and pure entertainment.

Brooks’ unique blend of comedy and homage to Hitchcock results in a captivating film that keeps viewers thoroughly entertained.

The movie’s success resulted in a Golden Globe nomination for Mel Brooks in the category of Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy.

Brooks’ portrayal of Dr. Thorndyke resonated with audiences and further solidified his reputation as a comedic talent.

High Anxiety received favorable reviews for its clever writing, comedic performances, and homage to Alfred Hitchcock.

The film’s ability to balance comedy and homage garnered praise from both critics and fans, ensuring its place as a beloved comedy classic.

The movie’s box office success proved that audiences were hungry for a unique blend of comedy and homage.

High Anxiety’s popularity further solidified its status as one of Mel Brooks’ most successful films.

The film’s runtime is approximately 94 minutes, ensuring a fast-paced and enjoyable viewing experience.

Brooks’ comedic pacing keeps the film engaging and ensures that no moment is wasted.

High Anxiety marked Mel Brooks’ fourth directorial effort, showcasing his growth and evolution as a filmmaker.

The film stands as a testament to Brooks’ creativity and ability to continually push the boundaries of comedy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, High Anxiety is a classic movie that has left a lasting impact on the world of cinema. With its brilliant blend of comedy and suspense, Mel Brooks has created a masterpiece that continues to entertain audiences to this day. The film showcases Brooks’ superb ability to parody and pay homage to iconic Alfred Hitchcock films, while adding his unique brand of humor.High Anxiety not only offers an engaging and entertaining storyline, but also showcases the incredible talent of its cast, including Brooks himself in the lead role. It is a must-watch for fans of both Hitchcock and comedy films, as it masterfully blends the two genres.Whether you are a fan of classic movies, a Hitchcock enthusiast, or simply in need of a good laugh, High Anxiety is a film that should not be missed. Its clever writing, memorable characters, and unforgettable moments make it a true cinematic gem that continues to stand the test of time.

FAQs

1. Is High Anxiety a Hitchcock movie?

No, High Anxiety is not a Hitchcock movie. It is a comedy film directed by Mel Brooks, who parodies and pays homage to Hitchcock’s style and films.

2. Who stars in High Anxiety?

Mel Brooks stars in High Anxiety as the lead character, Dr. Richard Thorndyke. The film also features other talented actors such as Madeline Kahn, Cloris Leachman, and Harvey Korman.

3. What is the plot of High Anxiety?

High Anxiety follows the story of Dr. Richard Thorndyke, a renowned psychiatrist who becomes embroiled in a murder conspiracy after taking over as the director of the Psycho-Neurotic Institute for the Very, Very Nervous. It is a hilarious and suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns.

4. Is High Anxiety suitable for all audiences?

High Anxiety is rated PG, making it suitable for most audiences. However, be aware that it contains some comedic violence and innuendos, so parental discretion is advised.

5. What makes High Anxiety a must-watch?

High Anxiety is a must-watch due to its clever blend of comedy and suspense, making it a unique and entertaining film. It perfectly captures the spirit of Alfred Hitchcock’s movies while adding Mel Brooks’ signature humor, creating a delightful and hilarious experience for viewers.