The Producers

Mel Brooks' original comedy smash was reincarnated as a Broadway and West End musical. That show was then re-adapted back for the screen, and like any copy of a copy, the quality has unfortunately deteriorated. Nathan Lane plays our anti-hero, Max Bialystock, with exceptional flare; Matthew Broderick lets the partnership down with nothing more than a poor Gene Wilder impersonation. Some of the new musical numbers are fun to watch, with a hint of self-mockery, yet ultimately the film is a disappointment. The occasional laugh is there, making this a DVD worth renting, but as usual, it is the original you should add to your collection. [Graham McIntosh]