Mel Brooks.

Whenever I think of Mel Brooks, I'm instantly filled with warm nostalgia. I remember spending Saturdays watching his movies, and falling in love with his sense of humor. It's interesting looking back and seeing how his films shaped they way I see humor.

For those of you who aren't familiar with Mel Brooks, allow me to educate you:

Mel Brooks is an american comedic director, writer, and actor. His films have become comedic milestones in the film industry, and have made their way into the hearts of viewers in every generation. His parodies of various genre staples such as Spaceballs (Star Wars), Robin Hood Men in Tights (parody of the fantasy genre), and Blazing Saddles (A stab at the western genre) have given audiences thousands of quotable scenes. Other works of his such as Young Frankenstein and The Producers have even made their way onto broadway stages and swept the Tony's.

I'll leave some clips and trailers for your viewing pleasure, and I recommend that you check out his works ASAP.

The Producers (1967 and 2001)

The Producers is the earliest on this list (for being his directorial debut) and the first Mel Brooks film to be made into a musical not only on stage, but in a screen adaption as well. It tells the story of a reluctant accountant with dreams of being a broadway producer, and Max Bialystock, a broadway producer who's seen better days. The two go into business together when they realize that they can make more money with a flop than with a hit. 

Blazing Saddles (1974)

This satire of the western genre tells the story of a black man becoming the sheriff of a small, western town as an attempt by a corrupt politician to destroy the town from within to make room for a railroad. This film features one of my favorite scenes of all time; The actors in the film break out of their soundstage into the film studio, onto live sets, into the studio cafeteria, and even to the theatre where their own film is being played, the forth wall break to end all forth wall breaks.

Young Frankenstein (1974)

After hearing of his grandfather's passing, Dr. Frankenstein returns to Transylvania to settle his affairs, only to continue his late grandfather's work. This is the second Mel Brooks film to be made into a stage musical.

History of the World: Part I (1981)

In a series of comedic vignettes, Mel Brooks tells the history of the ancient world, including France and Greece, among others.

Spaceballs (1987)

A venture into the sci-fi genre, Spaceballs shows the journey of Lone Starr as he battle against the evil Lord Dark Helmet to keep him from stealing planet Druidia's air supply. Any fan of Star Wars will love this film and it's subtle nods to the original trilogy.

Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993)

The Final film on our list is a spoof of Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Not only are there jabs at Prince of Thieves, but also films such as the Godfather.