Monty Python: Almost The Truth

Monty Python: Almost The Truth is a riveting six-part documentary series that aired on the Sundance Channel in 2009. It was crafted to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Monty Python, a groundbreaking British comedy troupe known for breaking conventional comedic norms. The troupe consisted of comedians John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. This series was a meticulously built masterpiece exposing the lesser-known aspects of the Pythons, the comedy legends behind the iconic 'Monty Python's Flying Circus'.

This series offers audiences a comprehensive chronicle of the Python's journey. It delves deep into their humble beginnings, the success, and their immediate cultural impact, which continues to resonate even after years in the industry. Each member of Monty Python had a unique comedic essence, and the show skillfully manages to analyze their individual journeys, highlighting their comedic genius that further led to the formation of a sensation.

Monty Python: Almost The Truth stars the original members of the troupe themselves. The formidable team of John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin appear, sharing their untold stories, anecdotes, and the behind-the-scenes tidbits. The late Graham Chapman is also posthumously represented through archival footages. All of them illustrate the series of events that led to this unique comedic collaboration, which subsequently went on to reshape the humor landscape.

Adding to the list of key interviewees, Carol Cleveland, the Python's most notable co-star, joins. Her contribution becomes crucial as she provides insight into the group's dynamics from an outsider's perspective while also reminiscing about her time with the troupe. Neil Innes and David Sherlock likewise add layers to the narrative. Innes, who wrote songs for the troupe, offers his perspective from a creative point of view. On the other hand, Sherlock, the life partner of late Python member Graham Chapman, shares intimate details about Chapman's personal life and their relationship, which significantly impacted many of his performances.

Monty Python: Almost The Truth also includes commentary from other comedians, such as Eddie Izzard and Tim Brooke-Taylor, who candidly discuss their appreciation for the troupe. These modern-day comedians testify to how Monty Python's comedy has remained influential, transcending generations, and has perhaps, become more relevant with the fluctuating times.

In addition to the interviews, the series does a brilliant job in seamlessly integrating various sketches, movie clips, performance footages, and never-before-seen material from the Python archives. While the interviews offer introspection, these clips allow viewers to understand the troupe's evolution and witness their comedic style change over the years, adding another layer of depth to the narrative.

One of the striking features of Monty Python: Almost The Truth is its unflinchingly honest depiction of the troupe's journey. It does not shy away from the hardships and hurdles they faced, the tensions and differences within the group, and the criticism that came their way. This honesty makes the series informative, relatable, and adds a human touch to the troupe's larger-than-life persona. The series reflects on the Pythons as more than comedians; they are also creators, pioneers, visionaries, and world-changers.

The series, aptly named 'Monty Python: Almost The Truth (The Lawyer's Cut)', alludes to the contentious relationship the troupe had with the legal and censorship establishments due to their unorthodox and controversial content. However, this did not dampen their spirits, and they continued to challenge societal norms, push the boundaries of taste, and redefine the rules of comedy.

Overall, the show is a must-watch for Python fans and comedy enthusiasts. Even for those unfamiliar with the Pythons, it is an engaging, insightful journey through the lives of five comedic geniuses whose humor, wit, and irreverence have stood the test of time and continue to inspire numerous comedians across the globe. Monty Python: Almost The Truth not only revisits the past but also celebrates the present and looks forward to comedy's future. It brilliantly encapsulates the essence of Monty Python – unparalleled, uncompromising, and always entertaining!