Today’s quick review: Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Guided by a vision from God, King Arthur of Camelot (Graham Chapman) and his Knights of the Round Table (John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones, Michael Palin) seek the Holy Grail. Their quest takes them across Britain and pits them against a variety of challenges, from fiery enchanters and deadly monsters to vituperative Frenchmen and buxom maidens.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail is a comedy that spoofs Arthurian legend. The film’s humor consists of Monty Python’s usual blend of non sequiturs, petty bickering, anachronisms, and general absurdity. The plot follows Arthur and his knights as they search for the Holy Grail, but the format of the story more closely resembles sketch comedy with recurring characters, a series of disconnected episodes rather than a cohesive story.
Where Monty Python and the Holy Grail excels is in its comedy. The movie parodies everything from witch hunts to knightly heroics, with plenty of tangents along the way. Its scenes are unpredictable and frequently hilarious, and its jokes are among the most quotable in cinema history. The clever writing is backed by a host of outrageous performances by an experienced comedy troupe.
Try Monty Python and the Holy Grail if you are a fan of ridiculous comedy. Not everyone will appreciate its explicit gore, however cartoonish, and its plot leaves something to be desired, but its goofy humor and creativity are enough to make it an excellent watch for the right viewer. For a similar historical comedy with a more cohesive plot, check out The Life of Brian.
8.3 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.5 to 8.0 for surreal but hilarious humor.