Chris Hicks: Early Mel Brooks appearances on TV are very funny in new DVD set

My introduction to Brooks came in 1961 with the first 2000-Year-Old Man record album and his guest appearances with Carl Reiner on TV shows hosted by Steve Allen, Ed Sullivan, etc. I was an instant fan. His name to me virtually defined “funny,” so I was always on the lookout.

When his first movie, “The Producers,” was about to be released in 1968, I was very excited and talked it up to all my friends, who responded with a puzzled look and a two-word question: “Mel Who?”

Later, after the double-whammy movie success in 1974 of “Blazing Saddles” and “Young Frankenstein,” everyone knew Mel Brooks.

For fans, “The Incredible Mel Brooks” DVD collection is more than merely a nostalgic sampler. It’s an overview of a brilliant comedian’s career in a box.

But most of all, it’s funny.

E-MAIL: hicks@desnews.com