Energy naps were key to Mel Brooks' problem solving on Spaceballs

Incredibly, Mel Brooks was already in his 60s when he co-wrote and directed 'Spaceballs'. The comedy legend, famous for playing the 2,000-year-old man, understandably needed a little rest every once in a while. He also played two roles in the space opera parody, President Skroob who ruled the planet Spaceball, and Yogurt, the Yoda-inspired master user of Schwartz.

Brian Pullman recalled Brooks taking time for himself to maintain his creative spirit and energy, telling The Hollywood Reporter:

"Mel used to take these naps where he'd just lay down for five minutes, and I've never seen anything like the spirit come back to him. He'd come back with all these great ideas and solve problems. It was pretty dazzling."

Pullman was in good company with other comedy legends on his team: Joan Rivers as Dot Matrix, Dick Van Patten as King Roland, and John Candy as his sidekick, affectionately known as of Barf. But working with Mel Brooks is a different kind of career highlight, altogether. Pullman also said it was sometimes difficult to keep his energy up when he had to act in front of a blue screen. Hopefully Brooks' penchant for energy naps kept Pullman and the rest of the cast and crew from feeling too pressured to be funny. Fortunately, "Spaceballs" has become a revered addition to Mel Brooks' legacy and is considered a beloved piece of "Star Wars" lore.