Monty Python and the Holy Grail is one of those films that seems to keep on keeping on. Having watched the film three times in one sitting: once in its normal presentation, the second time with subtitles and the third in Romanian… the sketch comedy has an ability to remain incredibly funny and just as silly as Camelot.
When the opportunity arose to meet one of the Pythons… the most famous one. It was a no-brainer and knowing the occasion may well present itself, it seemed like the perfect moment to wear a Monty Python and the Holy Grail t-shirt. A fan of the film, which holds a coveted spot in my Top 4 favourite movies of all-time… it was a strange honour for John Cleese to tell me that my t-shirt’s quote had too much punctuation. From one of the Pythons who wrote the darn thing!
So what exactly makes Monty Python and the Holy Grail one of the funniest scripts ever written? Well, a combination of factors really. Not only are the Pythons experts when it comes to a variety of comedy styles… but their experimental and fearless attitude means they’re willing to do and try anything that works. For instance, the campy tone in the medieval saga is established in part by the need to be resourceful. They couldn’t afford real horses… so the iconic coconut husks became their steeds for their epic quest!
Immediately this positions this medieval tale as a satirical piece, toying with convention and poking fun at the absurdity of each moment. Going way over-the-top just like the livestock that becomes catapult fodder… this comedy never takes itself seriously and invites the audience to adopt this anything-goes attitude towards the absolute nonsense being served up. A spoof of the age and genre, it bends clichés and throws comic caution to the wind.
Just like Terry Gilliam’s imaginative animation, which cleverly links one medieval scene to the another… there’s a dark surrealism at play as illogical moments and heightened suspense create curious and humourous contrasts. Think of the knights who say “Ni” in their bid for a shrubbery or the dreaded killer rabbit versus the holy hand grenade of Antioch.
Beyond the surreal, Monty Python’s witty repartee and puns run rampant. Playing exaggerated characters with deadpan faces, there’s an added layer to this band of characters who take themselves seriously in a world that is anything but… As if their dry delivery isn’t enough, the Pythons add a considerable amount of physical comedy to heighten the comedic, slapstick and over-the-top moments.
Known to work hard for the jokes… think of the joke that killed sketch… they dedicate themselves to the laugh. Writing parody that includes pop culture, history and literature – they did they homework, trying to truly invest in the gags. Operating with ruthless efficiency, almost every scene is memorable from the Black Knight’s determination to the loyal servant whose dying words are “message for you, sir”.
A quickfire medieval comedy with many brilliant sketches, there’s rarely a dull moment. Being so eclectic in its delivery and style, this eye-popping adventure does remarkably well given its budget. Doing the most with what they’re given… it also has a non-ending that works surprisingly well in leaving the film on an ellipsis and in a permanent loop.
So, ultimately Monty Python and the Holy Grail is one of the funniest screenplays and one of the most rewatchable films ever – a cult favourite. As hilarious as it may be to those who can appreciate Pythonesque humour, it’s also worth noting that this brand of campy, irreverent and silly comedy isn’t for everyone.