Michael Palin
ActorWriterProducerDirector
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Birthday
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Genres
142
Total Films
Also known as (female)
Place of Birth
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Birthday
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Zodiac Sign
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Genres
142
Total Films
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Also Known As (female)
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Place of Birth
Creative career
actor
142 Works
producer
1 Works
director
33 Works
writer
28 Works
other
3 Works
How To Make It In Comedy
Told by the stars who first found fame at the Edinburgh Fringe, this the inside story of what it takes to make a name there, from those who enjoyed overnight success to those who slogged for years to make it.0.0
Year:
2024
Fawlty Towers: 50 Years of Laughs
A celebration of John Cleese and Connie Booth's acclaimed sitcom following the misadventures of Torquay hotel owner Basil Fawlty. The programme explores its phenomenal success, with a selection of its finest moments, and contributions from fans, experts and supporting cast members.9.0
Year:
2023
Final Ascent: The Legend of Hamish MacInnes
The legend of Hamish MacInnes began early. At 16 he climbed the Matterhorn. At 17 he built his first motor car – from scratch. He attempted Everest in 1953 with his friend Johnny Cunningham, and almost stole the peak before Hillary and Tenzing. As an explorer, expedition leader and engineer he achieved world fame. As inventor of the all metal ice axe, author of the International Mountain Rescue Handbook and founder of Glencoe Mountain Rescue he has been responsible for saving hundreds of lives, if not thousands. But at the age of 84, his accomplishments could not save him from being institutionalised against his will, suffering from delirium. After a spell in psychogeriatric detainment in a hospital in the Highlands of Scotland, during which he made many escape attempts – he emerged to find his memory gone. This film tells the story of his life by mirroring his greatest challenge: to recover his memories and rescue himself.0.0
Year:
2019
Generation '66
Documentary exploring the key events of 1966, a period when British pop music, fashion and sport was making waves across the globe, but when the nation's upbeat mood was undercut by darker sensibilities.7.0
Year:
2016
Rik Mayall: Lord of Misrule
Comedian Rik Mayall died suddenly on 9 June 2014. Mayall's blend of rocket-fuelled physical comedy, surrealism, subversive satire and pompous punk wit left a body of work that spanned four decades. Mayall's characters include the Black Country's investigative nerd Kevin Turvey, Felicity Kendal-adoring student and 'People's Poet' Rik in The Young Ones, ruthless MP Alan B'Stard in The New Statesman, seedy loser Richie in Bottom and larger-than-life characters Robin Hood and flying ace Lord Flashheart from Blackadder. Narrated by Simon Callow, this programme salutes Rik Mayall and celebrates his part in the UK's comedy history using rare and unseen archive footage. It also features contributions from people who knew or admired him, including Michael Palin, Simon Pegg, Lenny Henry, Ben Elton, Alexei Sayle, Christopher Ryan, Tim McInnerny, Jools Holland, Ruby Wax and Greg Davies.7.5
Year:
2014
Spike Milligan: Love, Light and Peace
A very personal portrait of the truly unique comedy genius of Spike Milligan, as told in his own words and featuring exclusive home movie footage. With contributions from those who worked with him, lived with him and were inspired by him.0.0
Year:
2014
Monty Python: The Meaning of Live
With unprecedented access, this program reveals the humour, chaos and passion that went into bringing the Flying Circus to the stage cumulating in the legendary One Down, Five To Go.7.5
Year:
2014
Monty Python Live (Mostly)
Celebrate the last night of the Pythons on the big screen! - With John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.7.0
Year:
2014
Alexander Armstrong's Real Ripping Yarns
Alexander Armstrong explores the literature that inspired Michael Palin and Terry Jones's classic TV comedy Ripping Yarns, a loving parody of the Boys' Own books and magazines of their childhood.0.0
Year:
2014
The Wipers Times
When Captain Fred Roberts discovered a printing press in the ruins of Ypres, Belgium in 1916, he decided to publish a satirical magazine called The Wipers Times - "Wipers" being army slang for Ypres. Full of gallows humour, The Wipers Times was poignant, subversive and very funny. Produced literally under enemy fire and defying both authority and gas attacks, the magazine proved a huge success with the troops on the western front. It was, above all, a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity. In his spare time, Roberts also managed to win the Military Cross for gallantry.6.3
Year:
2013
Produced By George Martin
A profile of Sir George Martin, Britain's most celebrated record producer, from his early days at EMI/Parlophone to his work with The Beatles.7.7
Year:
2012
A Liar's Autobiography: The Untrue Story of Monty Python's Graham Chapman
John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam pay tribute to their late Monty Python colleague Graham Chapman in this hilarious, 3-D animated adaptation of Chapman's brazenly fictionalized life story.6.1
Year:
2012
Monty Python in Aberystwyth
In a strange turn of events, Sue Jones-Davies became the mayor of a Welsh town where Monty Python's Life of Brian was still banned - the film where she played the female lead.0.0
Year:
2009
Marty Feldman: Six Degrees of Separation
A documentary about the legendary and influential comedian, actor and writer, who went out from the BBC to conquer Hollywood, but sadly the system quickly withdrew its support when they couldn't contain his talents. This portrait is spiked with many comments from people who knew Feldman privately or had dealt with him professionally. His early death sadly rendered him all but forgotten by the public. The compilation consists of interviews, some film clips and photos as well as various audio clips from him.7.8
Year:
2008
Monty Python Conquers America
This documentary follows the evolution of the British sketch comedy troupe that redefined humor and shaped an entire generation of American comics, focusing especially on their conquest of the American comedy scene,6.5
Year:
2008
Hitler: The Comedy Years
A documentary about the portrayal of Adolf Hitler in popular culture.5.0
Year:
2007
50 Films to See Before You Die
Celebrating the relaunch of Film4 as a free-to-air TV channel, Channel4 counts down their list of the fop 50 films to see before you die, as compiled by film critics and personalities.8.5
Year:
2006
Michael Palin & the Mystery of Hammershøi
In 2005, Michael Palin set out to unlock the mysteries and find out about the background and life of Danish painter Vilhelm Hammershøi. Hammershøi painted around the start of the 20th century and many of his pictures have a distinct coolness and distance about them. Palin, wanting to know of his inspirations and the reason for these mystical pictures, starts his search in Hayward Gallery in London, goes to Amsterdam and finally the painters home town, Copenhagen (Denmark).7.0
Year:
2005
Remember the Secret Policeman's Ball?
The Secret Policeman benefit shows for Amnesty International brought together comedy grand masters - from Python and Beyond the Fringe - and performers then relatively unknown, like Rowan Atkinson. Narrated by Dawn French, the programme includes interviews with many of the comedians and musicians who took part: John Cleese, Stephen Fry, Michael Palin, Sting, Lenny Henry and many more. The shows and their stars had a huge effect on modern British comedy. There are few comics today whose careers have not been heavily influenced by the anarchic and surreal humour of these events.4.8
Year:
2004
The Best of Monty Python's Flying Circus Volume 2
All the best sketches from the second series of the ground-breaking comedy. Memorable moments include: 'It's in the Mind'; 'The New Cooker Sketch'; 'Nobody Expects the Spanish Inquisition'; and 'The Ministry for Silly Walks'. Originally Broadcast from 15 September to 22 December 19709.0
Year:
2004
The Best of Monty Python's Flying Circus Volume 1
Compilation of the best Sketches of the first series of Monty Python's Flying Circus, which ran from 5 October 1969 to 11 January 1970. Memorable moments include: 'The 127th Upperclass Twit of the Year Competition from Hurlingham Park'; 'Bicycle Repair Man'; 'Vicious Gangs of Old Ladies - the Layabouts in Lace'; 'The Man with Three Buttocks'; 'The Lumberjack Song'; 'Vocational Guidance Councillor'; and 'The Joke That Kills People'. Oh, and a sketch about a dead parrot.9.0
Year:
2004
Michael Palin and the Ladies Who Loved Matisse
Michael Palin visits the Baltimore apartment gallery of Etta and Claribel Cone, wealthy American sisters who amassed one of the world's finest collections of modern French art.0.0
Year:
2003
Monty Python: From Spam to Sperm
Meatloaf introduces a look back at Python's use of music. Included interviews with the team, André Jacquemin and other conspirators.0.0
Year:
1999
The Monty Python Story
The story behind how the comedy sketch group Monty Python formed in 1969, and lead to four very series, and four very funny films that are still has funny today as when they were released.0.0
Year:
1999
Monty Python: 30th Anniversary Sketches
The Sketches produced by the surviving Pythons for the BBC's celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the first showing of Monty Python on 5 October 1969.0.0
Year:
1999
American Friends
Francis Ashby, a senior Oxford don on holiday alone in the Alps, meets holidaying American Caroline and her companion Elinor, the blossoming Irish-American girl she adopted many years before. Ashby finds he enjoys their company, particularly that of Elinor, and both the women are drawn to him. Back at Oxford he is nevertheless taken aback when they arrive unannounced. Women are not allowed in the College grounds, let alone the rooms. Indeed any liaison, however innocent, is frowned on by the upstanding Fellows.5.9
Year:
1991
The Art Of Travel With Michael Palin
6 part series where Michael Palin discusses the different railways across Britain and their respective artwork.0.0
Year:
1989
Comic Roots: Michael Palin
Short biographical documentary about comedian Michael Palin and his early interest in acting and comedy. Includes his education at the Shrewsbury School and Oxford.0.0
Year:
1983
Roger of the Raj
On the eve of the Great War Roger Bartlesham's aristocratic parents are firm believers in the Empire though Roger, encouraged by socialist Latin teacher Mr Hopper,dreams of equality and opening a tea shop with his sweet-heart Miranda. After a sojourn in India where various officers shoot themselves to atone for breaches in etiquette Roger gets caught up in Hopper's attempt to bring the Russian revolution to England but is rescued from the chaos by Miranda in time for them to pursue their dream.0.0
Year:
1979
Life of Brian
Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he's not dodging his followers or being scolded by his shrill mother, the hapless Brian has to contend with the pompous Pontius Pilate and acronym-obsessed members of a separatist movement. Rife with Monty Python's signature absurdity, the tale finds Brian's life paralleling Biblical lore, albeit with many more laughs.7.8
Year:
1979
The Rutles: All You Need Is Cash
The story of the rise and fall of the Pre-Fab Four.6.9
Year:
1978
Murder at Moorstones Manor
Sir Clive Chiddingfield invites his family to his birthday party at lonely Moorstones Manor but in the course of the evening half of those present are murdered one by one and the remaining survivors except for Lady Chiddingfield each admit to being the killer,eventually shooting each other.0.0
Year:
1977
Escape from Stalag Luft 112B
During World War I Major Errol Phipps is determined to escape from Stalag Luft 112B but his attempts all fail. However all the other prisoners and the guards succeed, leaving him alone in the camp to make elaborate plans - including a tunnel system so extensive it becomes the Munich Underground. He is so obsessed with his escape plans he fails to realize that the war has ended and dies a disappointed man. He does however manage to escape from his grave after he has been buried though.0.0
Year:
1977
The Testing of Eric Olthwaite
Eric Olthwaite is so boring that his family all leave home to escape him. Then one day he is accidentally caught up in a bank robbery and discovers that the robber shares his interests in shovels, black pudding and rainfall so they team up to make daring raids to steal rainfall records. As a result Eric becomes famous and is considered interesting again, so much so that he is made the mayor of Denley Moor.0.0
Year:
1977
Jabberwocky
A medieval tale with Pythonesque humour: After the death of his father the young Dennis Cooper goes to town where he has to pass several adventures. The town and the whole kingdom is threatened by a terrible monster called 'Jabberwocky'. Will Dennis make his fortune? Is anyone brave enough to defeat the monster?6.0
Year:
1977
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
King Arthur, accompanied by his squire, recruits his Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Bedevere the Wise, Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Robin the Not-Quite-So-Brave-As-Sir-Lancelot and Sir Galahad the Pure. On the way, Arthur battles the Black Knight who, despite having had all his limbs chopped off, insists he can still fight. They reach Camelot, but Arthur decides not to enter, as "it is a silly place".7.8
Year:
1975
Close-Up Toothpaste Relaunch
One of the least-known Monty Python rarities is “The Close-up Toothpaste Relaunch,” a short advertising film. Follow Elida Gibbs' super salesman as he heroically brings new toothpaste, "Close-up Green" to the high street.0.0
Year:
-
Monty Python's Best Bits Celebrated
Monty Python’s influence on comedy has been compared to the Beatles’ influence on music, a pivotal moment in the evolution of television humor. Celebrating the cultural legacy and influence of the troupe, this special pairs their original material with new and entertaining commentary from celebrities who consider Monty Python hugely significant, both personally and to the history of screen satire. Celebrity humorists discuss, laugh, and reminisce about various Python segments and bring a fresh perspective to the material, connecting Monty Python’s work to today’s most successful television humor. In a time when a few moments of escape and laughter couldn’t be more sought after, this special reminds viewers of Python’s cultural impact, and that PBS introduced them to American viewers.0.0
Year:
2021
Sir David Attenborough and Sir Michael Palin in Conversation
Sir David Attenborough and Sir Michael Palin reflect on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and what it has taught us about global co-operation in tackling some of the biggest challenges our planet is faced with.5.7
Year:
2020
Peter Sellers: A State of Comic Ecstasy
The comedy pioneer behind the Goon Show, Dr Strangelove and the Pink Panther series is explored in depth in this film, surveying his meteoric rise to fame and troubled personal life.8.0
Year:
2020
Attenborough at 90
In celebration of his ninetieth birthday, Sir David Attenborough shares extraordinary highlights of his life and career with broadcaster Kirsty Young, including the inspiring people he has met, the extraordinary journeys he has made and the remarkable animal encounters he has had across the globe. Joined by colleagues and friends, including Michael Palin and Chris Packham, Sir David shares some of the unforgettable moments from his unparalleled career, from capturing unique animal behaviour for the first time to the fast-paced advances in wildlife filming technology, as well as stories of the wonder and fragility of the natural world - stories that Sir David has spent his life exploring and championing.8.0
Year:
2016
The New Incomplete And Utter History Of Everything
Terry Jones and Michael Palin revisit their "pre-Python" sketch show from 1969 which has sadly been wiped by the BBC. At the time, in 2014, only 2 episodes were known to exist. Palin and Jones re-shot wrap-arounds and aired remaining sketches from the show, taken from Jones' own private collection. In October 2023, the remaining episodes have been found.0.0
Year:
2014
Frost on Sketch Shows
Sir David Frost traces the development of the sketch show over the last fifty years, from variety theatre to primetime television.8.5
Year:
2013
Anatomy of a Liar
A documentary about A Liar's Autobiography: The Untrue Story of Monty Python's Graham Chapman.6.0
Year:
2012
The Secret Policeman's Ball
A live stand-up comedy and music gig to celebrate Amnesty International's 50th Anniversary.7.6
Year:
2012
Making Qi
Behind the scenes documentary on British panel show Qi.0.0
Year:
2011
Not the Messiah (He's a Very Naughty Boy)
Not The Messiah (He's a Very Naughty Boy) is a comic oratorio based on Monty Python's Life of Brian, which retells the tragic tale of Mandy, impregnated by a Roman soldier, giving birth to Brian, a reluctant revolutionary of the People's Front of Judea who falls in love with Judith, gets mistaken for a Messiah and is arrested by the Romans and sentenced to be crucified. It ranges in reference from Handel, through a naughty Mozart duet, to the Festival of Nine Carols, Bob Dylan, and the classic finale "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life".6.8
Year:
2010
Robbie the Reindeer in Close Encounters of the Herd Kind
Robbie and Donner's wedding is interrupted when Donner is kidnapped by aliens. Robbie saves the day again though with the help of his friends and an alien crystal.5.0
Year:
2007
Monty Python's Flying Circus - Graham Chapman's Personal Best
The LORDS of LAUGHTER--The SAINTS of SATIRE--The HIGH PRIESTS of LOW COMEDY--have sold out once again. Some say you can't take it with you. Others just refuse to go. Graham Chapman--doctor, tall actor, self-wrestler and really famous dead guy--is the latter. Chapman has a least 8 movie and TV appearances to his credit since he passed away in 1989 making him the most prolific corpse since Elvis. This DVD GRAHAM CHAPMAN'S PERSONAL BEST makes 9. In a comprehensive tribute written by the remaining members of the incomparable Monty Python's Flying Circus this program includes the sketches they believe Chapman would have called his very favorites. Of course they could be wrong.10.0
Year:
2006
Concert for George
As a memorial to George Harrison on the first anniversary of his passing, The Concert for George was held at the Royal Albert Hall in London on 29 November 2002 . Organized by Harrison's widow, Olivia, and son, Dhani, and arranged under the musical direction of Eric Clapton and Jeff Lynne. A benefit for Harrison's Material World Charitable Foundation, the all-star concert took place on the day of the first anniversary of his death. Proceeds from the film also went to the Material World Charitable Foundation. The film was shot using discreet cameras from over twelve locations.8.1
Year:
2003
The Unknown Peter Sellers
Documentary about the life and career of a comic genius, Peter Sellers.8.0
Year:
2000
Monty Python: Pythonland
Michael Palin presents a documentary discovering some of the places that were used as locations for the filming of Monty Python's Flying Circus0.0
Year:
1999
Fierce Creatures
Ex-policeman Rollo Lee is sent to run Marwood Zoo, the newly acquired business of a New Zealand tycoon. In order to meet high profit targets and keep the zoo open, Rollo enforces a new 'fierce creatures' policy, whereby only the most impressive and dangerous animals are allowed to remain in the zoo. However, the keepers are less enthusiastic about complying with these demands.6.2
Year:
1997
Michael Palin's Greatest Railway Journey: Derry To Kerry
Michael Palin travels through Ireland - from Derry in the North down to his ancestral homeland of Kerry in the South.0.0
Year:
1994
Great Railway Journeys - Derry to Kerry
Michael Palin travels through Ireland - from Derry in the North down to his ancestral homeland of Kerry in the South.0.0
Year:
1994
Tracey Ullman: A Class Act
A short series of 15 minute programmes, really expanded sketches, in which Tracey Ullman and Michael Palin play various roles satirizing the British class system.0.0
Year:
1993
Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python
Steve Martin presents selected sketches from "Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969)". It's the well known sketches, though the parrot sketch is not included. Steve Martin has some funny comments on the Pythons.7.0
Year:
1989
John Cleese's First Farewell Performance
A feature length documentary on the making of A Fish Called Wanda7.0
Year:
1988
Brazil
Low-level bureaucrat Sam Lowry escapes the monotony of his day-to-day life through a recurring daydream of himself as a virtuous hero saving a beautiful damsel. Investigating a case that led to the wrongful arrest and eventual death of an innocent man instead of wanted terrorist Harry Tuttle, he meets the woman from his daydream, and in trying to help her gets caught in a web of mistaken identities, mindless bureaucracy and lies.7.7
Year:
1985
The Dress
A BAFTA award winning drama about a mistake when buying a dress for his mistress leads Howard to look again at his wife.0.0
Year:
1984
Time Bandits
Young history buff Kevin can scarcely believe it when six dwarfs emerge from his closet one night. Former employees of the Supreme Being, they've purloined a map charting all of the holes in the fabric of time and are using it to steal treasures from different historical eras. Taking Kevin with them, they variously drop in on Napoleon, Robin Hood and King Agamemnon before the Supreme Being catches up with them.6.6
Year:
1981
The Box
Several individuals have been packed in a box; they disagree regarding what should be done.5.0
Year:
1981
Golden Gordon
Barnestoneworth United is the worst football team of 1935,who lose every match. Gordon Ottershaw is,however,their loyal fan,determined to prevent them from being disbanded after their final game. To this end he recruits the players from the renowned winning team of 1922 who turn up to defeat rivals Denley Moor.0.0
Year:
1979
The Pythons: Somewhere in Tunisia, Circa A.D. 1979
Ten years ago exactly, more or less, give or take a day or two, six young men sat down, or maybe stood, or perhaps some of them just lounged, and wrote the first episode of a new series called Owl Stretching Time. They were called Graham Chapman , John Cleese, Terry Gilliam , Eric Idle,Terry Jones and Michael Palin and later both they and the series became known as Monty Python 's Flying Circus . Today they are the best known British comedy group in the world, famous from Cathay to Kathmandu, from Sydney to Sidcup (except in Japan where the programme is called The Gay Boys' Dragon Show ... say no more). To commemorate their tenth anniversary a BBC team tracked them down in the deserts of Tunisia where they were filming their Life of Brian and almost persuaded them to examine the genesis, the genius and the gender of Monty Python.7.1
Year:
1979
The Curse of the Claw
Sir Kevin Orr is anxious to return the Sacred Claw of the Naga hills given him as a child by his uncle Jack but warned that unless it is returned before his sixtieth birthday the curse of the claw will kill him. He sets sail to return it but falls for the ship's female officer,who throws the claw overboard,killing everybody but Kevin. Years later the claw has returned and on his sixtieth birthday Kevin finds his wife Agatha dead,the claw beside her. He finally sends the claw back to the Naga hills,breaking the curse but sending him back in time to his childhood,his relatives still alive.0.0
Year:
1977
Pleasure at Her Majesty's
The first of the Amnesty International comedy benefit galas. The title is a play on the phrase at Her Majesty's pleasure (the show was performed at Her Majesty's Theatre, London). This show came to be considered part of the Secret Policeman's Ball series of shows that it inspired, although it pre-dated the first show in the series by three years. The event was organized by a team of three: Monty Python member John Cleese, Amnesty's Assistant Director Peter Luff and Transatlantic Records executive Martin Lewis. It featured the cream of Britain's comedic talent of the era, setting a precedent that would inspire many subsequent Amnesty galas...6.5
Year:
1976
Three Men in a Boat
One hot June day, three friends decide there is nothing they would like to do more than to get away from London. A boating holiday with lots of fresh air and exercise would be just the very thing, or so their doctors tell them. So, after debating the merits of hotel or camp beds and what to pack, they set off on their voyage - a trip up the Thames from Henley to Oxford - but very quickly find themselves ill-equipped for the trials of riverbank life.5.9
Year:
1975
Henry Cleans Up
An educational comedy film from Guinness instructing how to clean out your pipes in the pub.0.0
Year:
1974
Is This a Record?
John Cleese, Michael Palin and Terry Jones celebrate the Guinness Book of World Records.6.0
Year:
1973
Euroshow '71: May Day Special
German made-for-TV musical extravaganza starring Monty Python.0.0
Year:
1971
Isadora Duncan, the Biggest Dancer in the World
The outrageous life of the American dancer of the 1920s, Isadora Duncan, whom Ken Russell described as "part genius and part charlatan".5.5
Year:
1966
The Magic Faraway Tree
Soon after the Thompson family’s arrival in the countryside, the three children – Beth, Joe, and Fran – discover a magical tree and its extraordinary and eccentric residents, including Moonface, Silky, Dame Washalot, and Saucepan Man. At the top of the tree, they are transported to spectacular and fantastical lands and, through the joys and challenges of their adventures, the Thompsons learn to reconnect and value each other for the first time in years.0.0
Year:
-
The Fringe, Fame and Me
The Fringe, Fame and Me is the story of how a small Scottish arts festival that began 75 years ago this year became a national institution – a crucible where new stars are forged, careers made, and sometimes, dreams dashed. Told by the stars who first found fame at the Edinburgh Fringe, this is the inside story of what it takes to make a name here, from those who enjoyed overnight success to those who slogged for years to make it. Through their triumphs, favourite jokes, and sometimes painful failures, we’ll discover a hidden history of British comedy – revealing how the gags we find funny and the comedians we love reflect our changing culture.0.0
Year:
2022
Jeepers Creepers
After twenty years as a struggling variety turn and then a prolific scriptwriter and television star, comic genius Marty Feldman found screen stardom with his very first Hollywood role in Mel Brooks' Young Frankenstein. With his wife Lauretta as the power behind the throne, his rise and fall and decline is related through bittersweet memories of the past and intoxicated infidelities in the present.4.0
Year:
2020
Python at 50: Silly Talks and Holy Grails
From ‘something completely different’ to icons of comedy and national treasures, this is a collection of rarely-seen Monty Python moments from the BBC archives, following the group’s encounters with ‘Auntie’ over the past 50 years.9.0
Year:
2019
An Accidental Studio
Charts the early years of HandMade Films seen through the eyes of the filmmakers, key personnel, and the man who started it all: former Beatle George Harrison.6.4
Year:
2019
Michael Palin: A Life on Screen
This special one-hour documentary reflects on Michael Palin's fascinating career as a BAFTA-winning actor, writer and presenter.7.0
Year:
2018
The Death of Stalin
When dictator Joseph Stalin dies, his parasitic cronies square off in a frantic power struggle to become the next Soviet leader. As they bumble, brawl and back-stab their way to the top, the question remains — just who is running the government?7.0
Year:
2017
Absolutely Anything
Eccentric aliens give a man the power to do anything he wants to determine if Earth is worth saving.5.9
Year:
2015
Monty Python: And Now for Something Rather Similar
Alan Yentob meets the five surviving members of Monty Python - John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Terry Gilliam and Eric Idle - as they prepare to reunite on stage.6.0
Year:
2014
50 Years of BBC Two Comedy
Documentary charting and celebrating five decades of often groundbreaking, boundary-pushing comedy from BBC Two.8.0
Year:
2014
The Meaning of Monty Python
A discussion between John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones about their film The Meaning of Life7.5
Year:
2013
Arthur Christmas
For hundreds of years, the Claus family has delegated the title "Santa" to a chosen few of its members, which can be passed down upon retirement. Each Christmas, Santa and his vast army of highly trained elves produce gifts and distribute them around the world in a one-night high-tech operation. However, when one of 600 million children to receive a gift from Santa on Christmas Eve is missed, it is deemed ‘acceptable’ to all but one—Arthur Claus, the current Santa’s misfit son deemed ineligible for the title, who executes an unauthorised rookie mission to get the last present halfway around the globe before dawn on Christmas morning.6.8
Year:
2011
The Phoenix: A Century of Cinema
When the Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley, north London, celebrated its centenary year in 2010, On-Par Productions were invited to document the cinema's history through the stories of its staff, patrons and local residents.0.0
Year:
2011
Not The Messiah: The Road To Albert Hall
Half-hour behind the scenes of Eric Idle's Not The Messiah oratorio. Featuring Eric Idle, Terry Jones, Michael Palin, Terry Gilliam, Neil Innes, Carol Cleveland and the cast of the show.0.0
Year:
2010
Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut) - Theatrical Release
This is a theatrical / movie adaptation of the TV Miniseries. Its chapters do not align with the episodes directly, so it necessarily must be held separate from the TV Miniseries.0.0
Year:
2010
Fawlty Towers: Re-Opened
30 years after Fawlty Towers (1975) ended, Stephen Fry narrates a documentary about the making of this classic sitcom.8.0
Year:
2009
Around the World in 20 Years
To mark the twentieth anniversary of "Around the World in 80 Days" we went back to Dubai and India to retrace our steps and to see if we could find any of the crew of Al Shama. The result was a one-hour documentary and an account of our return and a whole stack of new pictures. Now they join all my other traveller's tales.7.0
Year:
2008
The Last Day of World War One
Telling the stories of the last soldiers to die in the Great War.0.0
Year:
2008
Inside Shabby Road: The Music of 'The Rutles'
Short documentary on the music of the 'prefab four', The Rutles. Shabby Road is where the band recorded most of their music, and it is the name of an album by The Rutles, released on 26 September 1969, their last recorded album, but not last released (Let It Rot). Tracks 9-17 form a medley sometimes noted as one song called "The Shabby Road Medley". Tracks 14-16 are sometimes noted as one song called "The Bronze Blunders Medley". On the cover, Stig is depicted without trousers. This was one of the key "clues" which inspired the 'Stig is dead' conspiracy theory, which still lasts today in some circles. Stig later referenced these theories on his life album, Stig is not a wax replica please stop asking.0.0
Year:
2008
Get Up and Go: The Making of 'The Rutles'
Short documentary about the making of the film 'The Rutles: All You Need is Cash'.0.0
Year:
2008
Monty Python: Before the Flying Circus
Discover how six seemingly ordinary but supremely talented men became Monty Python, sketch comedy's inspired group of lunatics who turned such unlikely sources of inspiration as Spam, dead parrots and the Inquisition into enduring punch lines. This entertaining documentary includes interviews with members of the troupe, as well as home movies, photos and rare recordings from Monty Python's early years.8.0
Year:
2008
The Seventh Python
Sean Connors Films, Ltd. Presents a Frozen Pictures production of The Seventh Python, a nonfiction musical feature film based on the life, work and unplanned career of musical satirist Neil Innes. The Seventh Python traces one man’s winding path of whimsy as he flirts with destiny at the edge of fame with incredibly influential and unusually lasting work that keeps one foot each planted in the worlds of comedy and rock ‘n’ roll. From the Bonzo Dog Doo Dah Band to Monty Python's Flying Circus and The Rutles, to his Ego Warrior campaign and his insistence on wearing a plastic duck on his head, Neil Innes has proven to be the greatest musical comedy satirist of the past fifty years.0.0
Year:
2008
What Is Brazil?
What is this film called Brazil? Find out in this witty documentary.6.4
Year:
2008
Life Of Brian Screenplay
An original illustrated 110 minute recording by The Pythons of their early screenplay in progress.0.0
Year:
2008
The Secret Life of Brian
A documentary about the making of the controversial Life of Brian and the surrounding accusations of blasphemy.7.6
Year:
2007
What the Pythons Did Next...
A look at the careers of John Cleese, Eric Idle, Graham Chapman, Michael Palin, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam in the years after Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969).0.0
Year:
2007
The South Bank Show: Spamalot
Eric Idle is interviewed by Melvyn Bragg in this 2006 episode of The South Bank Show (1978). The surviving members of Monty Python discuss the huge success of Spamalot on Broadway and Eric Idle discusses the history of the musical.0.0
Year:
2006
Monty Python's Flying Circus - Michael Palin's Personal Best
Comedy from the UK0.0
Year:
2006
The Roots of Monty Python
A look back at the origins of the ground breaking BBC comedy series Monty Python's Flying Circus.0.0
Year:
2005
John Peel's Record Box
John Peel's Record Box is a documentary film made by Elaine Shepherd, released on 14 November 2005 on Channel 4. It was nominated for Primetime Emmy Award. It is about a small private collection of the British radio DJ John Peel who died in 2004 at the age of 65. Peel's main archive contained more than 100,000 vinyl records and CDs. This smaller private collection, however, contains 143 singles - some of them doublettes - stored in a private wooden box representing some of his personal favourites. According to the documentary, there are no singles by Peel's favorite group, The Fall, because he kept them in a separate box. The film features interviews with John's wife Sheila Ravenscroft, radio DJs and artists like Mary Anne Hobbs, Sir Elton John, Ronnie Wood, Roger Daltrey, Fergal Sharkey, Jack White, Michael Palin and Miki Berenyi.8.0
Year:
2005
Best Sellers or: Peter Sellers and 'Dr. Strangelove'
Documentary about actor Peter Sellers and one of his most memorable film roles.5.8
Year:
2004
The Best of Monty Python's Flying Circus Volume 3
All the best sketches from the third and fourth series of the ground-breaking comedy. Memorable moments include: 'The Finals of the All-England Summarise Proust Competition'; 'Stand and Deliver! It's That Highwayman Dennis Moore'; 'Thrust: A Quite Controversial Look at the World Around Us'; 'Whicker's Island'; and 'The Fifteenth Ideal Loon Competition'. Originally broadcast from 19 October 1972 to 18 January 1973, and 31 October to 5 December 1974.0.0
Year:
2004
The Meaning of Making 'The Meaning of Life'
The behind-the-scenes production documentary of Monty Python's 'Meaning Of Life.' This documentary is featured on the 2-disc Special Edition DVD for Monty Python's The Meaning of Life, released in September 2003.8.0
Year:
2003
Life on Air: David Attenborough's 50 Years in Television
Life on Air: David Attenborough's 50 Years in Television is a BBC documentary film that recounts David Attenborough's television career. It is presented by Michael Palin and produced by Brian Leith. The BBC first transmitted the documentary in 2002 and is part of the Attenborough in Paradise and Other Personal Voyages collection of 7 documentaries. It includes interviews with Attenborough and several of his former colleagues, along with archival footage.8.8
Year:
2002
Spike Milligan I told you I was ill... A live tribute
One of many tributes following the death of Spike Milligan. Comedians, actors and musicians join forces to present a live tribute featuring a selection of comic highlights from Spike's life. From recreations of his most famous sketches to readings of Milligan's own poems and extracts from his controversial wartime memoirs, these are all interspersed with archive film clips of the great man himself, showcasing his inimitable comic genius.0.0
Year:
2002
The Quest for the Holy Grail Locations
A documentary with Terry Jones and Michael Palin travelling to the locations of "Monty Python and Holy Grail".7.5
Year:
2001
Monty Python: Live at Aspen
In March 1998 in Aspen, Colorado, the surviving members of the Monty Python team – John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin – shared a stage together for the first time in 18 years. Even more remarkably, Graham Chapman was there too....in an urn! The occasion for this reunion was the US Comedy Arts Festival Tribute to Monty Python, hosted by Robert Klein in front of a live audience.6.9
Year:
1998
Palin on Redpath
Michael Palin travels to France in search of the Mediterranean view on his wall, captured by his favourite artist, Scottish painter Anne Redpath. He travels from a London bank, via a chateau in Cap Ferrat and a monastery in Edinburgh.0.0
Year:
1997
The Willows in Winter
Hailed as the "rightful heir" to "The Wind in the Willows", William Horwood's critically acclaimed sequel comes to magical life in this beautifully animated feature-length classic. Join four of the best-loved characters in children's literature for their heart-warming and hilarious new adventure along the Riverbank, narrated by Academy Award-winner Vanessa Redgrave.7.0
Year:
1996
The Wind in the Willows
Jailed for his reckless driving, rambunctious Mr. Toad has to escape from prison when his beloved Toad Hall comes under threat from the wily weasels, who plan to build a dog food factory on the very meadow sold to them by Toad himself.5.5
Year:
1996
The Wind in the Willows
Kenneth Grahame's literary classic about an enchanting world along the Riverbank has delighted readers for nearly a century. Now, this enduring beloved tale comes to life in this beautifully animated feature film from the producers of "The World of Peter Rabbit and Friends" and "The Snowman".7.1
Year:
1995
The South Bank Show: Terry Gilliam
Terry Gilliam is interviewed by Melvyn Bragg in this 1991 episode of The South Bank Show (1978). Gilliam speaks of his history with the British comedy group Monty Python and is joined by Michael Palin in discussing his films including Jabberwocky, Time Bandits, Brazil, The Adventures Of Baron Munchausen and The Fisher King.0.0
Year:
1991
Rabbit Ears - Jack and the Beanstalk
When Jack sells his cow for some lousy looking beans, his mother goes into a rage and throws the beans out the window. However, Jack soon discovers that those beans were no ordinary beans and he begins a journey to get the riches that lies on top of the beanstalk. However, Jack soon discovers that the riches are not the only things on the beanstalk.0.0
Year:
1991
Viz: The Documentary
Tongue-in-cheek documentary about British adult humor magazine, Viz.0.0
Year:
1990
Life of Python
This BBC documentary tells the history of the Python group, allowing a few glimpses at the works of its predecessors (At Last the 1948 Show, Do Not Adjust Your Sets etc.) and various interviews with the group's members and other associated artists.7.5
Year:
1990
The Movie Life of George
When EMI refused to produce Monty Python's Life of Brian, George Harrison founded Handmade Pictures so that he could see the film. This is the story of him and Handmade Films.0.0
Year:
1989
The Secret Policeman’s Biggest Ball
After the criticisms of the 1987 show’s disproportionate focus on music - and the financial disaster of its music-only Festival Of Youth weekend concert in 1988, Amnesty returned to the original formula that had been so successful in the 1976-1981 era with a primary focus on comedy. Pat Duffy was dropped from organising any further benefit events for Amnesty and for the 1989 show, Amnesty hired producer Judith Holder.7.5
Year:
1989
A Fish Called Wanda
While a diamond advocate attempts to steal a collection of diamonds, troubles arise when he realises he’s not the only one after the collection.7.2
Year:
1988
The Grand Knockout Tournament
The Grand Knockout Tournament (colloquially also known as It's a Royal Knockout) was a one-off charity event which was shown on British television on 19 June 1987. It followed the format of It's a Knockout, a slapstick TV gameshow which was broadcast in the UK until 1982. The event was staged on the lakeside lawn of the Alton Towers stately home-cum-theme park.6.0
Year:
1987
Comedians Do It On Stage
A Group of Britain's top comedy and music performers gather at a London Theater, to give their support to the Oncology Club Fund. The Fund is a charitable organization which provides training for young doctors in the practical day to day care of patients with cancer.0.0
Year:
1986
A Private Function
In the summer of 1947, Britain prepares to commemorate the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Phillip. To get around food-rationing laws, Dr. Charles Swaby, accountant Henry Allardyce and solicitor Frank Lockwood are fattening a black-market pig for the big day. Egged on by his wife, meek Gilbert Chilvers steals the swine, but the couple must conceal it from inspector Morris Wormold.6.3
Year:
1984
The Crimson Permanent Assurance
A group of down-and-out accountants mutiny against their bosses and sail their office building onto the high seas in search of a pirate's life.7.1
Year:
1983
Monty Python's The Meaning of Life
Life's questions are 'answered' in a series of outrageous vignettes, beginning with a staid London insurance company which transforms before our eyes into a pirate ship. Then there's the National Health doctors who try to claim a healthy liver from a still-living donor. The world's most voracious glutton brings the art of vomiting to new heights before his spectacular demise.7.3
Year:
1983
The Missionary
In 1905, after 10 years of missionary work in Africa, the Rev. Charles Fortesque is recalled to England, where his bishop gives him his new assignment - to minister to London's prostitutes.5.6
Year:
1982
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl
Monty Python perform many of their greatest sketches at the Hollywood Bowl, including several from pre-Python days.7.4
Year:
1982
The Secret Policeman's Other Ball
Following the success of the 1979 show and the financial benefits accruing to Amnesty from the spin-off movie, TV special and record albums – Cleese, Lewis and Walker planned the next show to be a more spectacular event. Cleese focused on broadening the comedic talent to be presented at the show. In addition to the Amnesty show stalwarts drawn from the Oxbridge/Monty Python/Beyond The Fringe orbit, he invited newcomers such as Rowan Atkinson’s colleagues from the BBC TV show Not the Nine O'Clock News including Pamela Stephenson and Griff Rhys Jones; comedian Victoria Wood and regional comic Jasper Carrott. Lewis secured a return appearance by Billy Connolly and a debut appearance by "alternative" comedian Alexei Sayle who Lewis had recently discovered and was managing. Building on the success of Pete Townshend's 1979 appearance Lewis recruited other rock musicians to perform at the 1981 show including Sting, Phil Collins, Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, Donovan and Bob Geldof.6.0
Year:
1982
Great Railway Journeys - Confessions of a Train Spotter
In this affectionate documentary, Michael Palin confesses to being a train spotter when he was a boy and fulfils his ambition to travel to the Isle of Skye by train. On the way, he contrasts the practical world of modern trains with the nostalgic dreams of steam and stops off to hop on a steam train in Yorkshire. His mission fulfilled at the Kyle of Lochalsh, which route will he take home?7.0
Year:
1980
Whinfrey's Last Case
In 1913 the British government, hearing that the Germans are planning World War I, ask top agent Whinfrey to intervene, but instead he decides to go on holiday to Cornish fishing village Torpoint. Here he believes he has stumbled upon a smuggling ring, but in fact they are Germans who are masquerading as locals in an advance invasion party. The British arrive and arrest them, believing that Whinfrey deliberately planned everything - though it is apparent that he did not.0.0
Year:
1979
The Broken Bottle
Short sketch written by and starring Michael Palin and Terry Jones, of Monty Python.0.0
Year:
1977
Tomkinson's Schooldays
New boarder Tomkinson is thoroughly miserable at Graybridge public school where he has to fight the grizzly bear,get nailed to the wall on St Tadger's Day and do the bidding of Grayson,also known as School Bully. When his mother refuses to let him come home he makes several attempts to escape,all unsuccessful,but after winning the Thirty Mile Hop against a rival (Buddhist) public school he is promoted to School Bully when Grayson leaves for Eton.0.0
Year:
1976
The Great Birds Eye Peas Relaunch 1971
One of the least-known Monty Python rarities is “The Great Birds Eye Peas Relaunch of 1971,” a short advertising film that was made for the Birds Eye company’s internal use.0.0
Year:
1971
And Now for Something Completely Different
A collection of Monty Python's Flying Circus skits from the first two seasons of their British TV series.7.2
Year:
1971
Ending It All
Michael Palin guides us on suicide in this humorous public information film on motorway safety.0.0
Year:
1970
Across the Andes by Frog
Explorer Walter Snetterton and his party travel to the Andes to prove his theory that frogs are able to climb mountains. Due to the Cup Final the only person willing to act as guide is an elderly - but extremely agile - old lady and as Snetterton prepares to strike camp all his men desert him for the charms of the local ladies. Snetterton is never found but the frogs manage to escape and make it to Mexico City,thus proving his theory to be right.0.0
Year:
-
The Secret Policeman's Ball
Amnesty decided not to present a benefit show in 1978 in order to consider how to make better use of the performing talent so favourably disposed to assist it in raising funds. Peter Luff left Amnesty in 1978 and the organisation's new fund-raising officer, Peter Walker, was deputed to work with Lewis on reconfiguring the show to raise more money and greater awareness of Amnesty. Lewis proposed to Cleese that in addition to the comedy performances the show should feature some contemporary rock musicians. Cleese delegated this responsibility to Lewis who recruited Who guitarist Pete Townshend to perform, as well as New Wave singer-songwriter Tom Robinson.6.3
Year:
1979
Monty Python & the Holy Grail Location Report
An documentarian from the BBC visits the set of Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975). This documentary shouldn't be viewed as a making of the film, but rather a goof-off session that is simply there to conjure up laughter.0.0
Year:
1974
Monty Python In The Netherlands
Monty Python sketch created for Dutch television in 1973.0.0
Year:
1973
Monty Python: Who's There?
An instructional film about canvassing, for the Labour Party and starring the Python team, showing Labour Party workers how to canvass for votes. Filmed April 1970. Narrated by Michael Parkinson.6.0
Year:
1970
How to Irritate People
A pre-Monty Python mockumentary, written by and presented by John Cleese, that provides tips on learning how to irritate people.6.6
Year:
1969