Mel Brooks Reveals Costly Ad-Libs on 'Spaceballs' Set

Legendary filmmaker Mel Brooks has shared behind-the-scenes stories from the making of his 1987 'Star Wars' parody 'Spaceballs,' revealing that the improvisational skills of stars Rick Moranis and John Candy led to unexpected expenses on set. The comedic ad-libs delivered by Moranis and Candy had the crew erupting in laughter, ruining takes and costing the production money.

Brooks recounted how Moranis, portraying the villainous Dark Helmet, had a particularly memorable moment with the line "I can't breathe in this thing," leaving the crew in stitches. Similarly, Candy's unscripted quip "Oh! That's gonna leave a mark" after a crash landing scene caught everyone off guard and proved funnier than the original dialogue.

The director admitted his own culpability in the laughter-induced delays, acknowledging that he was the "guilty one laughing" at the actors' antics. Brooks also took a moment to praise Candy's kind and delightful personality, describing him as a joy to work with on the film.

'Spaceballs' provided Brooks with an opportunity to put his comedic spin on the science fiction genre, and he expressed hope that a new generation of viewers will uncover the cult classic at the TCM Film Festival, where he shared these amusing production stories.

As the film continues to find new audiences decades after its release, the tales of Moranis and Candy's ad-lib-induced laughter on set add to the enduring legacy of 'Spaceballs' and the comedic genius of its cast and crew. Brooks' candid recollections offer a glimpse into the joyful and unpredictable atmosphere that characterized the making of this beloved parody.

Key Takeaways

• Mel Brooks shared behind-the-scenes stories of 'Spaceballs'.
• Improv by Moranis and Candy led to unexpected expenses on set.
• Memorable ad-libs included "I can't breathe in this thing" and "That's gonna leave a mark".
• Brooks admitted to being the "guilty one laughing" at the actors' antics.
• Brooks hopes a new generation will discover the 'Spaceballs' cult classic.