The Twelve Chairs is unique among Mel Brooks' filmography. Although it contains his unmistakable flavor of humor, the story has some humanity to it that even the best of his films lack. It takes place in Russia, shortly after the fall of the Czarist regime, and the story is about a former noble and a priest who are trying to track down some priceless family jewels. They're always one step behind, but the joy is in the journey.

This is no classic and certainly not on a par with The Producers or Young Frankenstein. Some scenes drag on too long and others don't seem to get off the ground. But for those in an appropriately silly frame of mind, it's an amusing diversion, and Ron Moody and Dom DeLuise are always fun to watch.