27

SATURDAY

Dear Mr. Mel Brooks—Thank you for submitting your proposal for Spaceballs III: The Search for Spaceballs II to our studios. Our financial records show that the cult success of your 1987 Star Wars spoof, Spaceballs, has generated considerable revenues in the home-video market, particularly among the fraternity-member and sci-fi-enthusiast demographics. However, we remain somewhat concerned by the film’s blatant anti-merchandising messages, which make potential action-figure development and Taco Bell tie-ins problematic for our marketing department. In addition, it is the opinion of our executives that your outdated brand of sight-gag-ridden, Mad magazine-esque satire is no longer in sync with current industry trends and moviegoing audiences’ tastes. And though we appreciate your past efforts, it is MGM’s official position that Mr. Lucas is doing a satisfactory job making a complete mockery of his own work. Thus, your continued services in the matter are not required at this time. Sincerely, MGM Pictures. Spaceballs screens at 9:30 p.m. in the District of Columbia Jewish Community Center’s parking lot, 16th and Q Streets NW. $4 (suggested donation). (202) 777-3248. (Matthew Borlik)