Earlier today I found out that Gene Wilder passed away. It’s strange to imagine that even though I never meet this man, his passing could bring me such sorrow. My condolences go out towards his family and friends. Though I don’t know much about his acting career, there are two roles that I will cherish. Willy Wonka and Dr. Frankenstein from Young Frankenstein. I love the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. It is heartwarming, hilarious, and at times a bit freaky (what is up with the imagery in the boat tunnel?). I can quote so many parts along with it and I sing “I’ve got a golden ticket” whenever I have a ticket. It doesn’t matter the actual color. Young Frankenstein is just hilarious. I love when a classic story, such as Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is reimagined. It also parodies the genre of horror which I have learned to love. 

I was researching how Wilder passed away and discovered that he died from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s a devastating disease for both the person and for family. In a statement by Wilder’s nephew, he stated that they were lucky. The disease never took a real tole on him. He was still able to recognize his loved ones. The nephew said that his diagnosis was never announced because “the countless young children that would smile or call out to him “there’s Willy Wonka,” would not have to be then exposed to an adult referencing illness or trouble and causing delight to travel to worry, disappointment or confusion. He simply couldn’t bear the idea of one less smile in the world.” That is the bravest thing in my eyes. To keep a hopeful soul and still wish to bring people joy. I believe that comedy can bring so much joy in the darkest of times. I’ve used it myself whenever I am feeling down. I remember at my Aunt’s funeral, my cousin was still just a toddler. At the end of every song she would clap her hands and say “Yay!” It brought smiles to all our faces.

The world will say that joy and hope are for the naive. I say it is for the brave.

Source: http://variety.com/2016/film/news/gene-wilder-dead-dies-willie-wonka-young-frankenstein-1201846745/