When Things Were Rotten
When Things Were Rotten is an American situation comedy television series created in 1975 by Mel Brooks and aired for half a season by ABC. A parody of the Robin Hood legend, the series starred Richard Gautier as Robin Hood. Also in the regular cast were Dick Van Patten as Friar Tuck, Bernie Kopell as Alan-a-Dale, Henry Polic II as the Sheriff of Nottingham, Ron Rifkin as Prince John, Misty Rowe as Maid Marian, and David Sabin as Little John. Richard Dimitri played a dual role as identical twin brothers; Renaldo was one of the Merry Men, while Bertram was the Sheriff's right-hand man.
Insights
Plot Summary
A bumbling knight, Sir George, is tasked by the tyrannical King Vexler to save the corrupt kingdom of Bromberg from the villainous Sheriff of Charlestown. Sir George, aided by his loyal squire, Tim the Toolman, and a band of outlaws, embarks on a series of misadventures to fulfill his quest.
Critical Reception
When Things Were Rotten was met with a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics appreciated Mel Brooks's signature slapstick humor and anarchic style, others found the comedy to be too broad and the plot underdeveloped. Audience reception was also divided, with some fans of Brooks's earlier work enjoying the film, while others found it less successful than his previous comedies.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its absurdist humor and Mel Brooks's distinctive comedic style.
- Criticized for a thin plot and humor that sometimes falls flat.
- Recognized for strong performances, particularly from Richard Pryor and Dom DeLuise.
Google audience: Audiences generally found the film to be a humorous if somewhat chaotic parody of classic Westerns, with many enjoying the slapstick and the comedic talents of the cast, though some felt it lacked the sharp wit of Brooks's other films.
Fun Fact
The film's satirical take on the Robin Hood legend was Mel Brooks's first directorial effort in the Western genre, preceding his more successful Western parody, 'Blazing Saddles' (though 'Blazing Saddles' was released earlier in 1974).
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