The two-part HBO Original documentary Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! premieres on Thursday, January 22, at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT. Directed by Emmy winners Judd Apatow (Knocked Up, This Is 40) and Michael Bonfiglio (Paris to Pittsburg, Jerry Before Seinfeld), the film’s second installment follows on Friday, January 23, according to HBO Max. Subscribers can stream both parts on HBO Max starting January 22.

Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! offers a comprehensive look at the extraordinary life and legacy of Mel Brooks–the legendary writer, director, and performer. From his early days in television sketch comedy to his iconic film and stage successes, Brooks has spent nearly a century using bold satire to reflect the human condition, proving that laughter is a vital tool for resilience and human connection, via HBO Max.

Through Apatow’s candid interviews and a treasure trove of historical clips, Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man! explores the architect of the modern spoof. HBO Max says that by examining classics such as Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein, the documentary reveals how Brooks transformed the absurdities of life and the weight of postwar trauma into subversive, boundary-pushing laughter that has resonated for nearly a century.

Debut date: THURSDAY, JANUARY 22 (8:00-9:45 p.m. ET/PT)

HBO Max reported that Part One chronicles Mel Brooks’ journey from a combat soldier to a Hollywood icon. It details his early career in the ‘writer’s room’ era alongside Neil Simon and Larry Gelbart, a time that laid the groundwork for modern humor. The documentary examines his personal struggles, including the end of his first marriage and his reliance on therapy, while highlighting the pivotal role Anne Bancroft played in his life. By blending his heritage with a brazen satirical style, Brooks defied critics and social norms with landmark films like The Twelve Chairs and Blazing Saddles, eventually cementing his status as a comedic visionary.

Debut date: THURSDAY, JANUARY 23 (8:00-9:45 p.m. ET/PT)

Focusing on his legacy and personal bonds, the final part follows Brooks through his most creative runs and his deep-seated relationships with family and fellow legends. From the slapstick genius of Silent Movie to the dramatic weight of The Elephant Man, the film illustrates Brooks’s wide-ranging talent. It culminates in his historic 12-Tony-win sweep for the Broadway adaptation of The Producers, presenting his life story as a testament to the power of humor as a tool for resilience and enduring influence, according to HBO Max.

A ‘who’s who’ of Hollywood talent gathers to honor Brooks in this two-part special. HBO Max reports that the film pairs candid commentary from Mel himself with testimonials from modern comedy giants like Amy Schumer, Sarah Silverman, and Jimmy Kimmel. Notable collaborators such as Barry Levinson and the Zucker brothers offer behind-the-scenes perspectives, while Spaceballs stars Bill Pullman and Daphne Zuniga reunite to discuss his legacy. Perhaps most moving are the contributions from Brooks’ own family, including all four of his children and his granddaughter. 

Hailing from Apatow Productions, this two-part documentary brings together a veteran of the creative team led by directors Judd Apatow and Michael Bonfiglio. Supported by executive producers like Kevin Salter and a robust production staff including Wayne Federman and Olivia Rosenbloom, the project was developed for HBO under the guidance of Nancy Abraham, Lisa Heller, and Anna Klein.