The Immortal Mel Brooks.

This article centers on a detailed conversation with Mel Brooks, the acclaimed comedian, writer, director, and producer, as he approaches his 97th birthday. Brooks reflects on his experiences as a World War II combat engineer and mine defuser, his early influences in comedy, and his evolution as a multifaceted creator who sought control over his work by writing, directing, and producing. He discusses the camaraderie of wartime, the challenges of anti-Semitism, the importance of surprise in humor, and his views on religion and spirituality. The interview also highlights Brooks’s relationships with fellow comedians, his approach to creativity, and his lasting impact on comedy and film.