As a dedicated Monty Python enthusiast who’s spent countless hours immersed in their wacky world of humor, I must say that “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” remains one of my all-time favorites. The film, with its cleverly crafted jokes, absurd situations, and an underlying layer of satire, is a testament to the group’s unparalleled ability to tickle our funny bones.
Measuring the fame of a comedy film can sometimes be done by counting its numerous well-known and frequently quoted dialogue lines, and by this standard alone, “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” might just be the most acclaimed movie in existence. (I’m confident that even laymen Martians could join in on the “Camelot Song”.) Compiling all of its memorable quotes and moments seems like an impossible task for an ordinary person, but it’s a challenge worthy of a valiant knight such as myself.
The six brilliant minds responsible for the iconic sketch show, Monty Python (Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin), continued to explore new territories by delving into the legends of King Arthur. Maintaining their signature blend of humor, absurdity, bizarre scenes, and historical intelligence, they churned out a wealth of comedic treasure related to the Holy Grail.
Moose And Llamas In The Opening Credits
Instead of beginning with typical opening credits, directors Terry Gilliam and the late Terry Jones chose an unusual approach by presenting the closing credits first, interspersed with a dash of animal-induced pandemonium. Once the enigmatic narrator mentions his sister, anything goes, and the text humor escalates to a vibrant climax.
The First Time Audiences See Coconuts Instead Of Horses
One intriguing aspect of the comedy “Holy Grail” that continues to delight audiences is the humorous touch where characters don’t actually ride horses but instead run while striking coconut halves together to simulate the sound of horse hooves. This budget-friendly idea by Michael Palin remains as charming today as it was when first introduced.
“Are You Suggesting Coconuts Migrate?”
Arthur’s initial encounter with other leaders is disrupted by a soldier who objects to Patsy’s possession of coconuts since she hadn’t been to a tropical region, and also questions the feasibility of an average or common swallow, let alone a small group, transporting such fruits over long distances. However, if we’re discussing African swallows…
“I Feel Happyyy! I Feel Happyyy!”
In the beloved movie “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” the line “Bring out yer dead!” stands out as a memorable moment. Yet, it’s the resilient spirit and optimism that oozes from the man who isn’t quite deceased yet that truly captivates. Sadly, this joyful state is cut short when a hard blow to the head ensues, extinguishing his happiness forever.
King Arthur Meeting 37-Year-Old Dennis
In a rephrased manner, Graham Chapman’s character King Arthur learns that making incorrect assumptions can lead him into awkward discussions, such as when he mistakenly perceives Dennis, a working-class man in his 30s, as older than he actually is and says, “I don’t think you’re old, but you’re at least middle-aged.” This misunderstanding creates a difficulty for him to assert his authority over those who recognize his error and the underlying issues within the system.
“Listen, Strange Women Lying In Ponds Distributing Swords Is No Basis For A System Of Government.”
An idea that sparked a political movement, at least in jokey meme form, Dennis’ unique description of the mythical Lady of the Lake and others mentioned soon after are perfect examples of the Python troupe’s A+ writing skills and ability to one-up their own jokes.
The Entire Black Knight Scene
You shall have no quarrel with this pick, good Sir Reader, for the Black Knight is possibly the most widely known of any character beyond Arthur himself, from his ceaseless defiance — “Just a flesh wound.” — to his admirable ability to lose limbs and keep on ticking. One wonders how he would have paid off his final threat to bite Arthur’s legs off without any hands to lift his helmet’s visor.
The Great And Logical Witch Debate
“It’d be ideal if all complex discussions on science, religion, and ethics could be resolved by finding equivalencies. However, given the complexity of societal issues, especially those concerning women, this method might not be entirely effective. Therefore, it seems wise that such matters should be handled by individuals who possess a deeper understanding.
“If She Weighs The Same As A Duck, She’s Made Of Wood”
Comparatively speaking, accusing someone of being a witch merely because they’re made of wood and as heavy as a duck is similar to the unfounded accusations women faced historically. It’s intriguing to ponder that this entire debate could be resolved with a simple question like, “What kind of duck are we talking about?
Sir Not Appearing In This Film
The charming storybook style, particularly noteworthy due to Sir Robin’s detailed account, is graced with an endearing and puzzling element – the sudden appearance (or perhaps lack thereof) of our tiny, logic-defying character.
“It’s only a model.”
Previously, it was common to discuss meta-topics in dialogues. Patsy’s funny remark touches upon the actuality of the production, where they could only use real-life castles and had to resort to models for other scenes. The amusement lies in the fact that she is silenced for disclosing filmmaking tips, as well as the unexpected revelation itself.
The Camelot Song
One of the favorite songs from Monty Python’s musical collection, “The Camelot Song,” is a catchy tune that rhymes Camelot with “used diaphragms a lot” and “pushes the stroller a lot.” It was likely the first time I learned what a stroller signifies.
The French Taunting Knight’s Whole Vibe
The “Holy Grail” character who could benefit from his own quote collection is none other than John Cleese’s French knight, known for his memorable one-liners like “I’m farting in your general direction,” and “Your mother was a hamster, and your father smelt of elderberries.” This line about someone’s father smelling of elderberries is the ultimate insult for anyone whose father actually did have that scent.
“Um, look, if we built this large wooden badger…”
In simpler terms, just as the Trojan Horse was a significant event in history, the idea of a Trojan Rabbit would have been doomed from the start. That’s why Sir Bedevere’s subsequent idea of constructing another hollow animal instantly ended up discarded.
The Fact That The Movie Is Set In Modern Times
One surprising aspect of this film is the occasionally mentioned side plot that shows King Arthur’s journey isn’t set centuries ago but is happening in present times instead, as hinted around the 32-minute mark. This twist leaves one pondering how characters like Dennis and others are still active in their roles today.
Sir Robin’s Entrance Song
Reflecting his storybook fame, Sir Robin’s introductory song (composed by Neil Innes) humorously outlines the knight’s least courageous deeds and embarrassments. The mention of having “kneecaps cracked” or “stomach unclogged” or “behind seared off” certainly sounds excruciating. Given such experiences, it’s not surprising that he might have been frightened away.
“Mine is Zoot. Just Zoot.”
As Sir Galahad the Chaste enters Castle Anthrax, he presents himself. This catches the eye of the captivating character Zoot, played by Carol Cleveland, who responds in a subtle but intriguing manner, hinting at the direction the ensuing scene will take.
The Knights Who Say Ni
Hey there! Here’s a fun way to put it: “Hey, hey, hey! Clearing my throat here… Watching ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ is an unforgettable experience filled with unique joys, even if its characters may not be historically accurate in any Arthurian legend. But who cares, right?
“What, The Curtains?”
Terry Jones’ character, Prince Herbert, has a love for singing that remains undeterred by others’ criticism. Interestingly, he manages to catch one of the movie’s subtle jokes. While trying to instill appreciation for his future kingdom in his son, the Lord of Swamp Castle seems to be pointing at the window drapes, but Herbert misunderstands it, thinking his father was simply gesturing towards them. Even Amelia Bedelia, known for her literal-mindedness, might have been fooled in this situation.
The Guard Who’s Terrible With Directions
In a scene showcasing the comedic talent of these actors, an obviously absurd conversation might feel awkward in other movies. However, it’s the enthusiastic loyalty of Idle’s simple-minded guard that turns this moment into a fond memory.
Sir Lancelot’s Time-Stretched Run To The Castle
One memorable instance, often referred to as a “Holy Grail” moment, intentionally distorts reality for a humorous effect, is when Sir Lancelot’s prolonged approach towards Swamp Castle appears to be the same footage looping over and over again. This repetition makes his abrupt (and dramatic) appearance at the door even funnier because it breaks our expectations.
Sir Lancelot Instantly Regretting The Massacre
Sir Lancelot wrecks havoc at the Swamp Castle wedding, causing harm to numerous guests, thinking he was rescuing a damsel in distress. However, upon discovering that his actions were motivated by a desire for Prince Herbert’s hand, Lancelot is hit with an immediate wave of regretful guilt, if not sincere remorse.
Sir Bedevere Messing Up ‘Ni’
Sir Bedevere’s innocence has a peculiar, endearing quality, and the way he appears unaware of this trait is particularly noticeable, such as during his failed attempt to intimidate Bee Duffell’s Old Crone. Interestingly, he mispronounced “Ni” as “Nuuuu.” However, he eventually managed to get it right.
“There are some who call me…Tim.”
By the film’s end, it becomes harder to confirm the presence of John Cleese’s character – the teleporting, fireball-launching sorcerer. This character is as delightfully eccentric and distinctive as the others in the movie, but don’t expect him to have a catchy or iconic name. He goes by Tim the Enchanter instead.
The White Rabbit Mayhem
The Holy Grail is tricky to locate because it might appear as an ordinary cup. In the same vein, the monster protecting the cave could be mistaken for a charming bunny-like creature, rather than the most terrifying intruder’s nightmare – even if it is the sweetest version of that dreadful dream imaginable.
How To Use The Holy Hand Grenade
It’s fortunate that being an exceptional king doesn’t require mathematical precision, or else King Arthur might have met his end. After all, it’s understandable if he found the peculiar guidelines for using Brother Maynard’s sacred hand grenade confusing.
Castle Aarrgh
I still can’t help but laugh thinking about Joseph of Arimathea being fatally interrupted while scrawling directions onto a cave’s wall, and still choosing to physically write out his final exclamation of “Aarrgh” to end the message. This may not be the first instance of this specific kind of textual gag, but it’s possibly the best. Plus, his directions were right on the money, even if it wasn’t what Arthur and Bedevere were hoping for.
The Knights Surviving The Beast Via Animator Health Problems
Sir Robin’s Exit At The Bridge
Throughout the movie, Sir Robin, played by Eric Idle, struggled with maintaining his reputation. At the bridge, he attempted to establish some authority, assuming he could easily answer the keeper’s questions. Unfortunately, he was wrong, and for not knowing the capital of Assyria (which is Assur), he was quickly sent fleeing into the smoky abyss in a panic.
The Intermission
Viewers in earlier times, I bet, were taken aback when they encountered the “Intermission” title card and music during Monty Python and the Holy Grail, especially given that such pauses are typically seen only in lengthier stage shows or movies where a mid-action break is justified. It’s likely there was some perplexity, and perhaps even a few individuals who cautiously considered leaving for the restroom before the next scene unexpectedly resumed.
The Return Of The French Taunters
When King Arthur and Sir Bedevere perhaps believed they could finally put an end to the constant mockery by the French, they found out that Castle Aarrgh was not where the long-sought Holy Grail resided, but instead housed a group of French knights uninterested in accommodating their English guests. They did manage to come up with some witty remarks, such as referring to the English knights as “dim-witted wipes of others.
The Lack Of A Proper Ending
Despite being viewed as puzzling by some, the unconventional, time-jumping ending of the Holy Grail is reminiscent of a Monty Python’s Flying Circus sketch rather than a typical film finale. Yet, what could be more fitting for a movie centered around a legendary artifact than an abrupt shift to stark realism and three minutes of darkness instead of credits? In this sense, it’s surprisingly perfect.
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2024-09-18 21:08