Blind Spot: Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Monty Python is a famous British comedy group primarily known for their show Monty Python’s Flying Circus. This was their second motion picture, focusing on the Arthurian legend in where Arthur and his knights are on the search for the Holy Grail. For someone unfamiliar with their work, anything is to be expected. While I loved the way that the group tackled the legend, and had some favorite funny bits, I think this film was not for me.

Going over the plot will basically spoil the entire film, but they do get into a lot of misadventures. It barely even starts when the comedy starts rolling, and it doesn’t stop from there. The material is quite good; it wasn’t dumb, some were clever and enjoyable and others just fell a little flat. Nothing in the film was forced; the writing fell into place working with the tone at atmosphere that was initially set from the beginning. It didn’t have those lull moments that don’t contribute to the overall effect, and it doesn’t overstay its welcome. 

People have hailed this to be one of the best comedies of all time, and while the material is there (and it doesn’t feel dated), it wasn’t my kind of film. I really liked the writing, and the performances seem to be dead on, but it wasn’t anything special. I'm kind of disappointed that I didn't like this that much, but still glad that I gave it a shot. 

Cast: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Eric Idle

Director: Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones

Year: 1975