History of the World: Part I is a 1981 comedy film written, produced, and directed by Mel Brooks. The film is a parody of various periods of history and also serves as a spoof of Hollywood's epic historical films. The film features Brooks in several roles, including Moses, King Louis XVI of France, and the Spanish Inquisitor Torquemada.
The film is divided into several sketch segments, each focusing on a different period of history. The first segment, "The Dawn of Man," depicts early man discovering the concept of fire and introducing it to his tribe. The next segment focuses on the Roman Empire, with Brooks playing Emperor Nero and Dom DeLuise as his servant. This segment includes a parody of gladiator films, with a hilarious musical number called "The Inquisition."
The film then moves on to the French Revolution, with Brooks playing King Louis XVI, and Madeline Kahn as his impersonal and uninterested queen. This segment features a spoof of Les Misérables, with a musical number called "The French Revolution." The final segment focuses on the Spanish Inquisition, with Brooks playing Torquemada and Kahn playing a victim.
The film received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its irreverent humor, while others found it to be in poor taste. However, the film has since gained a cult following and is considered one of Brooks' most beloved works. It has also been noted for its impressive and elaborate sets, costumes, and production design, which add to the overall comedic effect.