Film Lens
Monty Python: Live at Aspen is a TV special featuring the surviving members of the Monty Python team: John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. This performance took place on March 7, 1998, at the Wheeler Opera House in Colorado during The US Comedy Arts Festival. It marks the first time the Pythons appeared on stage together since their Hollywood Bowl shows in 1980. The special includes an interview with host Robert Klein, where the group discusses their work and answers questions from fans online.
The show includes a humorous moment where the late Graham Chapman's ashes are brought on stage, only to be accidentally knocked over by Terry Gilliam. The evening concludes with the group receiving an American Film Institute Star Award, presented to John Cleese, who humorously complains about their lack of recognition during their original run. The special ends with Eric Idle leading a singalong of 'Always Look on the Bright Side of Life.' It was broadcast on HBO in the US on March 21, 1998, and later released on VHS and DVD.
Why Watch
- •See John Cleese's mock rant about recognition.
- •Find out how Graham Chapman's ashes were humorously handled.
- •Meet the surviving Pythons for the first time since 1980.
Did You Know
•The special was filmed on March 7, 1998, at the Wheeler Opera House.
•Graham Chapman's ashes were brought on stage during the performance.
•Eddie Izzard made an uninvited appearance but was quickly removed.
•The special was broadcast on HBO on March 21, 1998.
Perfect For
Monty Python fansComedy history enthusiastsLive performance lovers