Monty Python and the Holy Grail

Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) is considered to be the first “proper” film by the British comedy troupe Monty Python, as it was a standalone concept, unlike the compilation of sketches released as the first film. This film is a unique take on the tale of King Arthur, and follows Arthur's quest to find the Holy Grail. The film has a heavy dose of Monty Python tomfoolery, and includes such shenanigans as breaks to modern day inserts within the world of the film, such as the ongoing police investigation, the refusal to enter Camelot because it is “a silly place”, and continuous fighting spirit of the Black Knight even after he loses his limbs.

Because of Monty Python's sketch background, this film relies on physical and verbal comedy rather than fancy effects or camera angles. Because the film was written, directed, and produced by members of the troupe, they were able to take heavy creative license with the film and the filming, including the aforementioned breaks to modern day characters, or the use of coconuts on-screen as the Foleyed effect of a horse's hooves. An added benefit of keeping the film within the oversight of the troupe meant that the film went from concept to final cut without outside influence or editing, allowing it to remain true to the troupe's original idea.