High Anxiety (1977) Review in 2025
High Anxiety is a 1977 American comedy film directed by Mel Brooks, starring Mel Brooks as a psychiatrist who becomes embroiled in a murder mystery at a sanitarium.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is suitable for family viewing, but some scenes may be too intense for younger children.
CineReview Recommendation
Highly recommended for fans of comedy and mystery, especially those who enjoy Mel Brooks' style of humor. However, viewers who are easily disturbed by dark or intense scenes may want to exercise caution.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film is a parody of the Alfred Hitchcock style of filmmaking, with Brooks playing a psychiatrist who becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation at a sanitarium. Along the way, he must navigate a series of wacky characters and situations, all while trying to clear his name and solve the mystery.
Review Details
story8.50/10
The story is engaging and full of twists and turns, with a clever plot that keeps you guessing until the end. However, some scenes feel a bit rushed and could have been expanded upon.
acting9.20/10
The acting is superb, with standout performances from the entire cast. Mel Brooks, in particular, shines as the lead character, bringing a level of energy and enthusiasm to the role that's infectious.
characters8.80/10
The characters are well-developed and memorable, with standout performances from Mel Brooks and Madeline Kahn. However, some characters feel a bit one-dimensional and could have been fleshed out more.
direction9.00/10
Mel Brooks' direction is top-notch, with a keen eye for detail and a clear vision for the film's tone and style. He expertly balances humor and suspense, creating a truly unique viewing experience.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is decent, but not particularly noteworthy. Some scenes feel a bit dark and grainy, which can make it difficult to see what's happening on screen.
Pros and Cons
Pros
High Anxiety is a hilarious and engaging film with a clever plot, memorable characters, and standout performances from the cast. Mel Brooks' direction is top-notch, and the film's tone and style are expertly balanced.
Cons
Some scenes feel a bit rushed, and some characters could have been fleshed out more. The cinematography is decent, but not particularly noteworthy.
Notable Quotes
"I'm a psychiatrist, not a magician!"
"I'm not a doctor, but I play one on TV!"
"You're not a doctor, you're a menace!"
