Libertarian Librarian

I saw part of the John Cleese "Monty Python's Personal Best" on PBS over the weekend. My god that show was funny-- I haven't seen any Python in a while, so I know-- cerebrally-- that it is a hoot, but there is a huge difference between remembering that and actually experiencing it again. There were several amusing bits-- the local ladies group reenacting Pearl Harbor by wailing on each other with purses in the middles of a muddy field, the fish slapping dance-- and then the crown jewel. The Upper Class Twit of the Year competition.

It has been a while since I laughed myself to tears, but that skit had me there after the first event-- the straight line. I think it's Michael Palin who comes up to the straight line, which the twits have to walk, and just falls over. Several times.

Then the matchbox jump. Graham Chapman's face for Oliver St. John-Mollusc as he tries to jump the "wall" of three-high matchboxes is absolutely priceless. As is Cleese's narration of the whole absurd thing.

Ah lordy. The chemistry and genius of those six lads working together was incalcuable-- SNL, Second City, The Boys in the Hall all had fabulously funny moments, but their best does not rise to the level of the best of the Flying Circus.

That said, the "in between bits" with John Cleese (supposedly 93 years old) were chuckle worthy at best. I found myself hoping that the "commentary" would be brief so I could see more of the classic MPFC bits.

All six episodes (one for each living Python, and one group effort to commemorate Chapman) will be available on DVD later this year-- a purchase I already have earmarked.

Labels: Entertainment