TVSquad

Given the level of Python geekery out there, I'm not sure any Monty Python sketch is truly obscure. But there are plenty of gems past the more celebrated Fish-Slapping, Dead Parrot, and Argument Clinic sketches you see most often.

Since the Python reunion was broadcast yesterday, IFC starts "Monty Python Midnights" tonight with The Holy Grail, and starts airing the six-part documentary Monty Python: Almost the Truth: The Lawyer's Cut on Sunday, I thought it would be a good time to toss my own bit of nostalgia on the building heap this week.

I'm sure any list could be nitpicked to death with so much to choose from, but these are a few of my favorite less talked about Python sketches, starting with one from the troupe's great concert film, Live at the Hollywood Bowl.

The Pope and Michelangelo
I've seen a couple of versions of this, and actually was more familiar with the Secret Policemen's version for a while. Priceless premise. Favorite quote: "It works, mate! It looks great. The fate one balances the two skinny ones."




History of the Joke
A great sketch for comedy nerds from the Secret Policemen's Balls DVD collection. Python dissecting slapstick. Favorite quote: This is mostly physical, but Graham Chapman's running narrative is wonderful - "And finally, 'The Foul Part.'"




Colin "Bomber" Harris
It was a toss-up between the original sketch from the show and this version from Hollywood Bowl. But the live version actually captures Chapman's facial expressions and physicality better than the original, plus we get Michael Palin's updated intro. Favorite quote: "There it is, Colin's most famous hold, the one-leg over shoulder Gerry Ford, and Colin's in real trouble."




The Architect Sketch
This might be the most iffy as far as obscurity is concerned, but it's the one I get the most blank looks for referencing, so I feel motivated to include it. Favorite quote: "I see, I hadn't correctly divined your attitude toward your tenants."




Vocational Guidance Counsellor
An extremely quotable sketch, one that has been a reference in my family for years. Favorite quote: "You don't think it might be better if you worked your way towards lion taming, say, via banking."