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12 Chairs
A former aristocrat Ippolit Vorobyaninov leads a miserable life in Soviet Russia. His mother-in-law reveals a secret to him - she hid family diamonds in one of the twelve chairs they once had. Vorobyaninov in cooperation with a young con artist Ostap Bender start a long search for the diamonds.
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Plot Summary
In 1920s Soviet Russia, a former aristocrat learns from his dying mother-in-law that a fortune in diamonds is hidden in one of twelve chairs. He teams up with a charismatic crook and a priest to race against a ruthless local official who also seeks the treasure. Their pursuit leads them on a chaotic journey across the country, involving elaborate schemes and narrow escapes.
Critical Reception
Mel Brooks' adaptation of the classic Russian novel was met with mixed to positive reviews, praised for its slapstick humor and the energetic performances of its cast, particularly Dom DeLuise. However, some critics found its comedic style to be a bit over-the-top and less sophisticated than Brooks' earlier works.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its broad, physical comedy and Dom DeLuise's standout performance.
Some found the humor to be less refined than Brooks' previous films.
Enjoyed by those who appreciate a fast-paced, gag-driven comedic adventure.
Google audience: Audiences generally enjoyed the film's energetic pace and comedic performances, especially Dom DeLuise. Some viewers found the humor to be a bit too broad, but many appreciated the classic Brooks-style slapstick.
Fun Fact
This was Dom DeLuise's first major film role after his breakout performance in 'The Cannonball Run' (1971), establishing him as a comedic talent in Hollywood.
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