To Be or Not to Be (1983)

A theatre troupe uses their talents to fight the Nazis in occupied Poland. I hadn’t at first realized that this was a remake of the 1942 film of the same title even if it’s a fairly faithful recreation. Both films are evocative of their eras. The narrative flows better in the earlier film; the jokes seemingly more important here. While they all provide laughs, Mel Brooks’ films definitely vary in how they resonate with me. This one is middle of the pack. It is great to see him working with his wife Anne Bancroft. They have a natural, fun camaraderie that comes across well in this film.   

Oscar Nomination: Best Actor in a Supporting Role