Why Monty Python Still Amuses: My Fanatic Fandom and Forgotten Films
While I may not regularly watch Monty Python movies, the world of Monty Python still holds a special place in my heart. Let's explore why I continue to read their script books and rewatch some of their most iconic films.
Fandom and Controversy
When it comes to Monty Python, the term "regularly" carries a connotation of fervent "fandom" that feels perhaps a bit unhealthy. While the show is undoubtedly cool and quite funny, it's not something that fits my viewing schedule on a consistent basis. I find Monty Python less amusing than some other classic comedies like 2 Ronnies, Porridge, Only Fools and Horses, Fawlty Towers, and Blackadder the Royal Family.
As much as I appreciate the skits and parodies, there simply hasn't been enough content to justify making it a regular viewing habit.
Retroviewing and Online Engagement
However, I did recently watch a Netflix series in 2015 called Monty Python: Anarently Life of Python, where celebrities reminisce about their favorite Monty Python moments. This series reignited my interest in some of their works and made me want to rewatch several of their famous films.
My favorite is the Time Bandits. But The Meaning of Life is also a great choice. To my surprise, I found Yellow Beard to be highly underrated. This is a rare gem in the Monty Python universe, and I highly recommend it.
VHS and DVD Delights
I have a few VHS tapes, including Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life, which I haven't watched in a while. I do read their script books regularly, which include bits not found in the films such as the shepherds and Otto from Life of Brian and Martin Luther from The Meaning of Life. I even quoted one of these booklets in a previous answer.
Interestingly, I have both Holy Grail and And Now for Something Completely Different on DVD. While I haven't watched And Now for Something Completely Different much, I have Holy Grail, and it's a unique version with different subtitles, including those for audiences who don't enjoy the film. Unfortunately, I haven't watched it either in a while, which I should certainly rectify.
New Discoveries
Over the past few months, I've been lucky enough to receive the Monty Python Almost Everything Ever in One Glorious Box Set as a birthday present. This box set includes the complete TV series, and I've watched Life of Brian twice while going through the entire series. As much as Monty Python may not be my go-to viewing choice, Life of Brian remains my favorite of their films. I laughed like a drain every time I saw it. My second favorite...