Gene Wilder's 10 Best Movies, Ranked
Gene Wilder was an influential comedic actor who appeared in a number of classic films in the 20th century. His performances in these films have left a lasting impact on audiences and the film industry. Let's take a look at Gene Wilder's 10 best movies, ranked in order of their impact and entertainment value.
Early Life and Career
Gene Wilder, born Jerome Silberman, was an extremely influential and one-of-a-kind comedic actor who left a lasting impact on the film industry. He became a frequent collaborator of legendary comedic writer/director Mel Brooks, starring in three of his films in 1967 and 1974. Wilder also appeared onscreen frequently with the pronounced comedian Richard Pryor, co-starring alongside him in four individual films between 1976 and 1991. Wilder attended The University of Iowa where he studied Communications and Theatre Arts, graduating in 1955. In addition to his acting career, Wilder also wrote and directed four feature films including 'The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother' (1975), 'The World's Greatest Lover' (1977), 'The Woman in Red' (1984), and 'Haunted Honeymoon' (1986). He was nominated for two Academy Awards, Best Adapted Screenplay for 'Young Frankenstein' (1974) and Best Supporting Actor for 'The Producers' (1967).
Wilder's larger-than-life portrayal of Willy Wonka in Mel Stuart's 1971 film 'Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory' is arguably his most iconic role, but he also appeared in 36 other films and television series until he retired from acting in 2003. Wilder passed away from Alzheimer's in 2016 at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of timeless performances and memorable characters.
Willy Wonka
Top 10 Movies
Gene Wilder's filmography includes a diverse range of roles, each showcasing his unique comedic talent and remarkable on-screen presence. Let's take a look at his 10 best movies, ranked according to their impact and entertainment value.
At number 10, we have 'The Frisco Kid' (1979), where Wilder starred alongside Harrison Ford in the Western comedy directed by Robert Aldrich. This classic film follows the journey of a Polish rabbi who forms an unlikely friendship with a bank robber as they travel through the Old West on their way to San Francisco.
Gene Wilder and Harrison Ford in the Frisco Kid
'Stir Crazy' (1980) takes the 9th spot, marking the second comedic collaboration between Richard Pryor and Gene Wilder. The film follows the story of two best friends who are falsely accused of a bank robbery and find themselves in prison. Critics agree that this film showcases the exceptional chemistry between the two comedic legends.
Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor look on in Stir Crazy
Coming in at number 8 is 'Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (But Were Afraid to Ask)' (1972), where Wilder's memorable scene involving a sheep can be found in Woody Allen's comedy. The film presents seven separate sketches that parody an actual informational guidebook to sex, and Wilder's sketch is a comedic highlight.
Gene Wilder with a sheep in Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex
