Seminar: Young Frankenstein

It’s Alive! How Young Frankenstein Brings Parody to Life 

What makes Young Frankenstein more than just a great spoof? In this talk, we’ll explore how Mel Brooks both parodies the classic Universal horror films, and lovingly rebuilds them. Drawing connections to everything from Abbott and Costello to Airplane! to Austin Powers, we'll unpack how Brooks’s childhood awe of Frankenstein movies shaped his approach to the film, and why that emotional connection may be the secret to the film’s enduring power. 

About Andy Miara: 

Andy Miara is a comedy writer, director, producer, and teacher. He began his career as a director at The Second City comedy theater in Chicago and went on to serve as a Head Writer at The Onion. His television credits include creating and writing for shows on Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Comedy Central, TBS, Netflix, and more. He is currently developing a new adult animated comedy series for Fox Animation. In addition to his work in television, Miara is an Assistant Professor of Screenwriting at Emerson College in Boston. He holds a BA in Film Studies from Columbia University and an MFA in Screenwriting & Playwriting from Northwestern University.