What’s it About?
In order to ruin a western town, a corrupt politician appoints a black Sheriff, who promptly becomes his most formidable adversary. (To say anything further would be a crime)
Who’s in it?
An amazing cast led by Cleavon Little, with Gene Wilder, Harvey Corman, Mel Brooks, Sam Pickens, and Madeline Khan. One of the few major Hollywood releases to star an African-American lawman (which is a joke in the film and was regarded that way by the audiences but we now know there were some). This movie is one of the greatest comedies of all time, never to be duplicated, it never pulls its punches in regards to racism and the utter stupidity of it, and so many comedy bits shine. Here’s one of my favorite scenes:
It’s a shame Cleavon Little didn’t have a bigger career than he did. He gave a great performance, especially with the other actors in his orbit. Everyone else seemed to do quite well afterward except for Little. This film is always a standout for showcasing a Black sheriff in a major western that would not be made today.
Where can I watch it?
You can stream it on Hulu and HBO Max, and can rent it from virtually everyone else, and I do mean everyone.
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