To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the iconic and hugely irreverent ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ Film, a new version of the movie is being screened across the country this autumn. Cinema goers will be encouraged to join in with the singing during the film at its screening and also to attend their local event in the costume of their favourite character from the film. Fans can also look forward to a special introduction from the Monty Python cast.
Original dates back to 1975
When the original ‘Holy Grail’ film was shown back in 1975, viewers were able to enjoy their heroes sending up the King Arthur legend in typically surreal fashion.
As the title suggests, most of the plot concerned the search for the Holy Grail. The legendary comedy team played most of the parts themselves, including many of the hilarious but somewhat ridiculous female characters.
Famous Black Knight scene
One of the most memorable scenes in the film involves a Black Knight who continues to halt Arthur’s progress on his torturous quest, even after his arms and legs have been severed from his body. He continues to taunt and goad Arthur and his party despite clearly being in no position to defend himself, as blood zanily spurts from his wounded body.
Inspiration for ‘Spamalot’
The original film was a commercial success (taking around $5 million at the box office) and provided much of the inspiration for Eric Idle’s spin-off musical entitled ‘Spamalot’, which won a Tony Award in 2005.
Indeed the feature film included several scenes where the players broke into song-and-dance routines, with the musician and comedian Neil Innes writing the songs for the film and playing several parts in the film itself. One of the catchier tracks from the film was “Knights of the Round Table”.
Limited screening
The new singalong version will be featured at around 500 cinemas in the United Kingdom and the viewing will be a one night extravaganza on 14th October this year.
Although one of the main Monty Python group, Graham Chapman, sadly died of cancer in 1989, the remaining five main members should all have a part to play to launch the new version. John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Terry Gilliam and Eric Idle will provide fans with the treat of a special introduction before the main feature begins.
Fans likely to dress up
As a major factor of the film was dressing up to help the players slip into the various eccentric characters that they portrayed, it is to be expected that their loyal fans will want to do likewise. It promises to be a highly entertaining evening and a fitting tribute to the classic comedy franchise.
