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Monty Python: Almost The Truth review
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The Truth as they know it (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
Monty Python, Almost The Truth: The Lawyer's Cut (Eagle Rock Entertainment)
“Spam, spam, spam, spam….” “Ni!” “Always look on the bright side of life….” If any of these expressions spark instant recognition, you’re undoubtedly acquainted with the antics of British comedy troupe Monty Python. October marked the 40th anniversary of the debut of the troupe’s landmark TV show, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, and to commemorate it comes the release of the Python’s own take on their history, presented as a six episode documentary.
The core interviewees are of course the Pythons themselves: John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin, with archive footage of Graham Chapman (who died in 1989). What’s especially fascinating is to hear the Pythons talk about their pre-Python lives; the circumstances of their growing up, their influences, and their other comedy work (it’s great fun seeing clips from British comedy shows that never aired in the US) — even though, with typical self-deprecation, they entitle the first episode covering these topics “The Not So Interesting Beginnings.” Carol Cleveland (who played many of female parts in the series and films) and Neil Innes (who wrote numerous songs and also appeared in the series and films) add further insight about the Python experience. Less interesting are the testimonials from UK and US comedians, and other fans (like Iron Maiden’s Bruce Dickinson); once you’ve heard a few people state how influential the Pythons are, the point is made.
For the bulk of the documentary, the Pythons reminisce about the series and the films, taking the story up to the Spamalot! musical, with plenty of clips dropped in. There isn’t too much analysis (the Pythons clearly aren’t interested in dissecting their work), so the documentary works best if you’re already fairly familiar with their oeuvre. It’s also very subjective; you get a clear sense of each personality involved, especially in the extended interviews served up as bonus material. Other bonus offerings include outtakes and complete sketches (the latter not as important, due to the amount of clips included in the documentary itself).
This set should delight any Python-o-phile, and provides a nice introduction for those just learning about the importance of dead parrots and silly walks.
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