THE PRODUCERS

2005 **** 135 mins.

Based upon the Broadway smash hit, which was based on a 1968 film, this musical film is nothing short of hilarious. The story is the same: a producer and an accountant believe that they can make more money with a flop than with a hit. So, they set out to make the worst production ever, but it ends up being a hit! One thing's for sure, this story does tend to work better as a musical. However, I feel that this film is still too deeply rooted in its stage performances, and at times they don't transfer to the screen very well. Matthew Broderick's character, especially, seems to work in parts but not in others. Still, though, this film is sure to generate many laughs and good times.
Rated PG-13 for sexual humor and references.

• Original theatrical aspect ratio: 2.40:1
• Released in limited release on December 16, 2005

• GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINATIONS: Best Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy, Best Original Song - Motion Picture (Mel Brooks for the song "There's Nothing Like a Show on Broadway"), Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Musical or Comedy (Nathan Lane), and Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture (Will Ferrell)