The Best Star Wars Parody Finally Getting Sequel?
The original Star Wars trilogy has become such a cultural touchstone that dozens of well-made parody films, television episodes, and one-off specials have been made about the franchise over the course of the last 50+ years. Of the many attempts to satirize the tale of a galaxy far, far away, none have succeeded quite like Mel Brooks’ classic 1987 film Spaceballs. Now, nearly 40 years after releasing the cult parody film, Brooks has expressed interest in helming Spaceballs 2, which would surely inspire tons of support from comedy fans around the world.
97 Year Old Mel Brooks Is As Witty As Ever
Mel Brooks discussed the possibility of making Spaceballs 2 during the Turner Classic Movies Festival in Hollywood last weekend. The 97-year-old comedy legend was in attendance to present the original Spaceballs film and answer a few questions from the audience. According to those who attended, the nearly century-old comedian, who is responsible for such classic works as Young Frankenstein, The Producers, Blazing Saddles, and more, was cracking jokes with the wit and speed of a young man.
The Legend Mentions Spaceballs 2
Brooks waxed about his meetings with film giants such as Alfred Hitchcock, who personally okayed Brooks’ parody film High Anxiety back in the mid-1970s. Like Hitchcock, Star Wars creator George Lucas personally okayed Mel Brooks’ use of parody in Spaceballs, under the stipulation that no merchandise would be made for the film or sold to the public, undercutting the Star Wars’ merch sales. Brooks agreed to these terms in the 1980s, but wondered aloud as he addressed the crowd at TCM Fest if that agreement still stands for a potential Spaceballs 2.
A Spaceballs Sequel Has Been Discussed Before
Rumors of a Spaceballs 2 production have been swirling in Hollywood for years, especially after Disney purchased the rights to Star Wars and began pumping out numerous new films. What would a Spaceballs film look like in a post-midichlorians and “somehow, Palpatine returned” world? Mel Brooks hasn’t held a directing credit since 1995’s Dracula: Dead and Loving It, though he has continued to write and produce for numerous projects throughout the 21st century.
Another Mel Brooks Title Recently Got A Sequel
In fact, one of Brooks’ other greatest comedy ventures, 1981’s History of the World: Part 1 just received a star-studded sequel last year in the form of an 8-episode mini-series on Hulu. While Brooks didn’t helm History of the World: Part 2 as a director, he served as a producer on the project and appeared in the series as a narrator. If Spaceballs 2 were to finally become a reality today, this is likely the route Brooks would take.
The World Needs Another Spaceballs Movie More Than Ever
While History of the World: Part 2 may not be quite as iconic as its predecessor, it’s certainly a passable legacy sequel, positively brimming with modern talent who grew up inspired by Mel Brooks’ many influential works. Spaceballs 2 could serve as a great opportunity to explore some of the latest developments in the Star Wars franchise, with even more ideological descendants of Brooks’ work.
For now, Spaceballs 2 is just a concept. The original Spaceballs is available to stream on Max, and still holds up as a classic comedy watch to this day.
