'Monty Python' Turns 50

This month marks the 50th anniversary of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” the 1975 cult classic that satirized the legend of King Arthur and helped define “Pythonesque” comedy—characterized by abrupt cuts, silly punchlines, and deliberately low-budget effects. Produced for around $400K, the film has since grossed over $5.7M and is widely considered one of the greatest comedies ever made.

The story follows King Arthur and his eccentric knights on a purposefully absurd quest for the Holy Grail, crossing paths with killer rabbits, taunting French soldiers, and a deity depicted as a photo of Victorian cricketer WG Grace. Memorable gags include the use of coconut shells to mimic horse hooves and the Black Knight, who insists “it’s just a flesh wound” despite losing all his limbs.

The six-man British comedy troupe Monty Python was best known for their BBC sketch series “Monty Python’s Flying Circus” (1969-74). The film later inspired several stage adaptations and earned multiple honors, including a European Film Award for Lifetime Achievement and a Tony Award for the film-inspired "Spamalot."