Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Back in 1975, the members of the Monty Python's Flying Circus went in search of the Holy Grail and, in the process, created a cult hit that has sustained it fans' interest for over 25 years. It's being released on the big screen, once again, in hopes of bringing out a whole new set of admirers of the strange and funny "Monty Python and the Holy Grail."

Laura's Review: A-

Robin's Review: B+

I've always been a big fan of the Pythons and have seen "The Holy Grail" probably a score of times, in part or complete. It may not be the best comedy film ever made and, admittedly, there are a number of slow points during its 90-minute run time. But, there have always been enough
outrageous bits and skits throughout that you can overlook the weak points.

Everyone has their personal favorite parts of Monty Python and the Holy Grail." My most favorite moment is the wonderfully wacky French sentry who denies King Arthur from seeing the fabled grail. But, there is the peasant Dennis and his radical governing philosophies; there's Sir Gallahad's discovery of Anthrax castle, its mistress Zoot and her 160 beautiful virgins who have been waiting for just such a man as Gallahad - of course, his friends "save" him from the horrible fate of deflowering the lot; the Black Knight does battle with the king; and, the Knights who say "Ni" demand their shrubbery.

The film is being touted as the "2001 theatrical release with all new negative and stereo soundtrack and missing footage." Unfortunately, the print looks good, not great and the missing bits consist of the actors talking, aside, to the camera. The makers cut these bits out 25 years ago for a reason. The additional minute or two of extra footage does nothing to make "The Holy Grail" any better, but doesn't hurt it either.

I'm not sure if new fans will be attracted to the wild wackiness of "The Holy Grail," but it is certainly a lot of fun for the Python pundits. We embrace the low budget film and its even lower humor.