About Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus (1972)

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• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music Soundtrack

About

Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus is a German television comedy show that aired in 1972. It is a spin-off of the popular British comedy group Monty Python's Flying Circus. The show consisted of two one-hour specials, which were broadcast in both German and English.

The specials featured sketches and skits performed by the Monty Python troupe, including John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Graham Chapman, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. The show combined the surreal and absurdist humor that was characteristic of the Monty Python group.

The first special, titled "Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus - Episode 1," was broadcast on January 14, 1972. It featured memorable sketches such as "The Funniest Joke in the World" and "The Lumberjack Song." The second special, titled "Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus - Episode 2," aired on January 21, 1972, and introduced new sketches, including "The Spanish Inquisition" and "The Ministry of Silly Walks."

Making / Production

The idea for Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus came about when the Monty Python group was invited to perform in Germany. Instead of simply translating their existing material, the group decided to create new sketches specifically for the German audience.

The show was filmed on location in Bavaria, Germany, and featured a unique blend of German and British humor. The production had a relatively low budget, but the creativity and comedic talent of the Monty Python troupe made the most of the resources available. The show incorporated various visual effects and silly props, adding to the surreal atmosphere.

Actors

• John Cleese - Played various roles, known for his physical comedy and dry wit.
• Terry Gilliam - Known for his animated sequences and unique visual style.
• Graham Chapman - Played various roles, known for his deadpan delivery.
• Eric Idle - Known for his energetic performances and comedic musical talent.
• Terry Jones - Played various roles, known for his cross-dressing and absurd characters.
• Michael Palin - Played various roles, known for his versatility and comedic timing.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Making Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus was a challenging task due to the language barrier between the British comedians and the German crew.
• The show was well-received in both Germany and the United Kingdom, further establishing the Monty Python group as international comedy icons.
• The success of Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus paved the way for future collaborations between the Monty Python group and German television, such as their appearance in the show "Rudis Tagesshow" in 1979.
• The two specials of Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus were later combined into a single feature-length film titled "Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus - Der Film" (1972).

Awards

While Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus did not receive any specific awards, the show contributed to the overall success and legacy of the Monty Python group, which has received numerous accolades for their contributions to comedy.

Quotes

• "I'm a lumberjack, and I'm okay." - The Lumberjack Song
• "Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!" - The Spanish Inquisition
• "You can't expect to wield supreme power just 'cause some watery tart threw a sword at you!" - Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Music Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus includes various comedic songs and musical numbers, performed by the members of the Monty Python troupe. Some of the notable songs include "The Lumberjack Song" and "The Accountancy Shanty."

The music in the show often played a crucial role in enhancing the comedic elements of the sketches and adding an additional layer of absurdity to the proceedings.