Lost Monty Python Sketches Found in Palin's Notebooks

A hidden archive deposited at the British Library in 2017 has recently come to light, revealing unused script ideas from the iconic comedy group Monty Python. Among the treasures are two sketches intended for the film "Monty Python and The Holy Grail," one featuring a Wild West bookshop and the other an “amorous Pink Knight.” These sketches, along with over 50 notebooks detailing the creative process behind "Holy Grail" and "Life of Brian," are now on public display. John Cleese, one of the original members of Monty Python, has given his blessing for the sketches to be reproduced. He noted that the group often generated more material than could be utilized in their productions. Reflecting on the creative process, Cleese explained that "The Holy Grail" evolved significantly, with many ideas being discarded to maintain a coherent narrative. He emphasized that the final story of the knights was compelling enough to stand on its own. The archive spans Cleese's extensive career, documenting his literary and creative endeavors from 1965 to 1987. This revelation comes amid a recent public exchange between Cleese and fellow Python member Michael Palin, where Cleese humorously referred to himself as "slightly boring," a comment that sparked light-hearted banter between the two. Notably, today marks the anniversary of the release of "Life of Brian," which debuted on August 17, 1979, further highlighting the enduring legacy of Monty Python's work in comedy.