Monty Python's Flying Circus Review: The Sketch Show That Broke the Rules
9/10 — Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969)
Pros
- Wildly inventive sketches
- Gilliam's animations
- Influential style
Cons
- Hit-and-miss
- Some dated material
The sketch show ran for 45 episodes between 1969 and 1974, with Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin. It broke conventions by refusing to use punchlines.
What works
The ideas are wildly inventive, from the Dead Parrot sketch to the Ministry of Silly Walks, and Gilliam’s animations give it a unique look. Its anarchic, interconnected style influenced generations of comedians.
Where it falters
The hit rate varies, and some sketches haven’t aged well. Its surrealism can be baffling.
Verdict
A foundation stone of modern comedy.
