RICHARD LAWSON: The Mad, Dark Genius of Gene Wilder.

Watching Wilder’s line delivery now, it seems strikingly modern, full of pathos and syncopated wit—not something you always associate with comedies that existed pre-, for lack of a better word, snark. But his performances also suggest something lost, a shading and seriousness that gave the comedy genre a little more shape—some true, genuine edge. Not many contemporary, leading comedic movie stars infuse their work with the danger that Wilder did, instead choosing to be affable and relatable. There always was an eerie relatability to Wilder’s characters, but he also showed you something new and offbeat, keeping the viewer nervous and on their toes, wanting more. His comedy managed to be subtle and completely out-there, a rare talent that we’re not likely to see matched again.

There’s a reason Wilder’s collaborations with Mel Brooks have held up better than any other Brooks movies, and that reason is Gene Wilder.

If you’re a fan, read the whole thing.