Many of us are still reeling from the passing of the greatGene Wilderjust a few days ago, but some theaters across the country are doing their part to help ease the pain and honor his memory. AMC and other theaters will be screening two of the actor’s most classic movies over the weekend, withBlazing SaddlesandWilly Wonka and the Chocolate Factoryboth set up for limited engagements over the holiday weekend. Not only that, but AMC is only charging $5 to see both movies.
Deadlinewas the first to report the news that both of these classic movies would be making their way to theaters this weekend.Willy Wonka, according to the report, is set to screen in about 200 theaters throughout the country.Blazing Saddlesis looking at landing on about 60 screens. AMC will be screening both ofWilder’s movies on 55 of their U.S. theaters over the weekend on Saturday and Sunday, withWilly Wonkastarting at 5 p.m, andBlazing Saddlesstarting shortly after at 7:30 p.m. That makes for a great double feature, and AMC is charging a very reasonable $5 each to see the movies.
It probably comes as little surprise to anyone thatWilly Wonka and the Chocolate Factoryis getting the wider release of the two. It is no doubt a more family friendly movie, and definitely has a larger following today thanBlazing Saddlesdoes. What might surpriseGene Wilderfans is that, while specific box office figures are not available for the movie,Willy Wonkadidn’t actually make all that much money upon its initial release. It is estimated that the now beloved classic only made $4 million during its initial run in 1971.
On the other hand,Blazing Saddleswas arguablyWilder’s biggest hit, bringing in an estimated $120 million in 1974. That would roughly translate to $550 million in today’s box office dollars, which is absolutely staggering for a comedy likeBlazing Saddles. The movie has been praised as one of thegreatest comediesof all-time, and is just one of the many classic collaborations betweenGene Wilderand comedy legendMel Brooks.
On Monday it was revealed that the icon and legendGene Wilderpassed at the age of 83, at his home in Stamford, Connecticut. His nephew,Jordan Walker-Pearlman, revealed that the actor died due to complications fromAlzheimer’s disease. Though his passing is tremendously sad, the re-release ofBlazing SaddlesandWilly Wonkais a great way to honor his legacy, especially for those who may have never had the opportunity to see the classics in theaters before. Be sure to check local listings to see where and when you’re able to see the movies this weekend.
