Filmmaker Discusses Two-Part HBO Documentary on Screen Talk
- Filmmaker Judd Apatow has detailed his approach to capturing the life and creative process of Mel Brooks in a new two-part HBO documentary.
- The documentary, titled Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!, focuses on the career of the multi-hyphenate artist.
- To achieve this, Apatow described a process of grilling Brooks during their interactions.
Filmmaker Judd Apatow has detailed his approach to capturing the life and creative process of Mel Brooks in a new two-part HBO documentary. During an appearance on Screen Talk
on May 8, 2026, Apatow discussed the methods he used to explore the personality and motivations of the comedian and filmmaker.
The documentary, titled Mel Brooks: The 99 Year Old Man!
, focuses on the career of the multi-hyphenate artist. Apatow explained that his goal was to move beyond surface-level conversations to understand the inner workings of Brooks’ mind.
To achieve this, Apatow described a process of grilling
Brooks during their interactions. This intensive interviewing style was designed to figure out what makes him tick
and to uncover the drivers behind his comedic legacy.
As part of the production, Apatow also conducted interviews with other industry figures, including Rob Reiner, to provide further perspective on Brooks’ influence and character.
While Apatow expressed a desire for audiences to view the HBO project, he also noted a current priority regarding social and political issues. He indicated that, at the moment, he would prefer people to turn off their televisions to protest ICE.