The Complete Monty Python's Flying Circus 16-Ton Megaset (1982)

And now for something completely brilliant!

I must confess, I've been a Python fan since the early Seventies. When I was in High School, memorizing their sketches was a rite of passage. So when A&E released the 16-Ton Megaset, it was a gift from the gods. And I am so happy that the list price has come down to a level at which every Pythonist can afford to add this most essential DVD box to their library.

Every episode of the original BBC series is here on the first 14 discs. The show was shot on film and on videotape, so there is a certain amount of roughness to the editing, which was present from the beginning and adds to the charm of the series. Yes, there are slight omissions here and there, but so few as to be almost unnoticeable to all but the most rabid Python fan. 99.9% of the material is here. Also on each disc are bits of trivia, biographies of the troupe, "Pythonisms", Terry Gilliam's animation broken down and with trivia, live material from the last two DVDs, and more.

On DVD 15 is "Live At The Hollywood Bowl" from 06/25/82, at which the troupe was greeted like Rock Stars, and "Live At Aspen" from 1998, a retrospective tribute at the U.S. Comedy Arts Festival, hosted by Robert Klein. There are bonuses on this disc as well. On DVD 16 is "Parrot Sketch Not Included: 20 Years Of Monty Python", a nearly two-hour retrospective hosted by Steve Martin (and the last appearance with Python of the late Dr. Graham Chapman) and "Monty Python's Fliegender Zirkus", the legendary special the troupe made for German television. Also, more bonus material such as Post-Python highlights, a section called "Bleeding Critics", and "Confusing Musings" (I won't explain. . . just enjoy!).

A&E has repackaged this set in slimline cases, so the 16-DVD set will fit nicely on your bookshelf.

Start to finish, this is an essential set for any fan of British comedy. The import and influence of the Python troupe is incalculable, so sit back with a glass of Australian wine, a fresh box of Whizzo Crunchy Frog, and laugh your head off. These chaps were, and are, brilliant. July 18, 2008

Kings of the Absurd

The 1st thing that hit me when watching these episodes again was how ahead of the curve the comedy troupe was. I came across this show as a pre-teen via syndication on local TV. The very "British humor" ingrained itself in my psyche and has had a hugh influence.

"IT'S" all great stuff!! Episodes are intelligent, silly, surreal and thought provoking. The Pythons string seemingly random sketches together brilliantly and make it all work as a whole more often than not.

If you're unfamiliar with Monty Python or just want to reaquaint yourself with their brand of comic absurdity, this boxset is a great way to do it. The box set contains every episode, 2 live discs, plenty of extras and looks and sounds great.

"And now for something completely different..." July 17, 2008

Python Megaset is Awesome!

This is a really excellent set of the series that ran on the BBC, and has a few extras to look at as well. The humor and satire are very funny, along with all the great skits that include "Nudge, Nudge" and "Ministry of Silly Walks". It is hard to believe that the guys did these shows nearly 40 years ago and they are still as fresh as they were in the late 60's. No disappointment here! July 14, 2008

Great pack!!! Great price

16 discs for under $ 55!!!! An this is the Monty Python that a few years ago cost us $ 150 and many less extras. Everybody who loved comedy and Python should appreciate this very very much. Might note that I have read that the pack included Spanish subtitles. Not true!!! Only English subtitles for the deaf. July 9, 2008

And now for something completely reviewable!

But funny.

If you know Monty Python from their movies (younger generations), this isn't consistently as funny as what you are used to. At times it is hillarious but at times it is nothing more than strange.

Well worth it, however. June 18, 2008

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