Ep 1. The Not-So-Interesting Beginnings

As a gifted troupe of comedy writers and performers, Monty Python revolutionized the world of comedy, introducing it to a style of humor that was clever, absurdist, and outrageously silly. In "Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut)," viewers get an in-depth look at the lives and careers of the Pythons, from their not-so-interesting beginnings to the height of their fame.

The first episode, titled "The Not-So-Interesting Beginnings," takes a look at the early days of the group before they became Monty Python. We get to see how each Python member got their start in comedy, from John Cleese's beginnings as a Cambridge Footlights performer to Graham Chapman's early work in medicine and his decision to pursue comedy. Along the way, we also learn about how each member met and connected with the rest of the group, and how Monty Python eventually came to be.

Despite its lackluster title, "The Not-So-Interesting Beginnings" is a fascinating episode that offers a glimpse into the formative years of one of the most influential comedy groups of all time. Through archival footage, interviews with the Pythons themselves, and insights from comedians and other industry insiders, the episode tells the story of a group of young strangers who all shared a love of humor and a desire to make people laugh.

One of the highlights of the episode is how it shows the early days of the Pythons in stark contrast to the era in which they emerged. In the 1960s and 1970s, when Monty Python was at the height of their popularity, comedy was dominated by tame, safe, and predictable acts. Monty Python, on the other hand, was anything but. Their humor was absurd, irreverent, and often unpredictable, and it's fascinating to see how the group's early experiences and aspirations laid the groundwork for the madness that was to come.

Another standout aspect of the episode is the focus it places on the individual members of the group. Each Python is given their own section of the episode, allowing us to learn more about their backgrounds, their personalities, and their early influences. We learn about Michael Palin's early work as a journalist and his decision to leave that behind to pursue a career in comedy, and how Terry Jones' interest in medieval history drew him to perform at historical reenactments. It's a testament to the strength of the Pythons as a group that each member is unique and interesting enough to warrant individual attention.

Overall, "The Not-So-Interesting Beginnings" sets the stage for what promises to be a comprehensive and entertaining look at the life and legacy of Monty Python. By showing us where the Pythons came from, the episode helps us appreciate just how groundbreaking and revolutionary their comedy was for its time. If you're a fan of the group, or just a fan of comedy in general, "Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut)" is an essential watch.