10 June 2026

Review: Monty Python’s Fliegender Zirkus

Monty Python’s Fliegender Zirkus (1972)

My dad brought me up listening and watching the comedy of The Goons, Billy Connolly, Bob Newhart, and of course, Monty Python.

I thought I’d seen just about everything Python…that is until I heard about Monty Python’s Fliegender Zirkus, now the first time ever on Blu-ray (and encased in a beautiful steenbok case) and lovingly remastered to make it look better than it ever has, and while Monty Python collectors have been spoiled with various DVD and Blu-ray releases over the years, this latest release of Monty Python’s Fliegender Zirkus feels genuinely special. For the first time, these two rare German television episodes from 1972 have been restored and presented in high definition, and the results are nothing short of fantastic.

Even before you put the disc in the player, it’s clear that a lot of care has gone into this release. The deluxe SteelBook packaging looks stunning, featuring classic Terry Gilliam artwork and benefiting from Gilliam’s direct involvement in the project. It feels like a premium collector’s item rather than just another catalogue release.

For those unfamiliar with Fliegender Zirkus, the two 45-minute specials were produced for German television station WDR in 1972. The first episode was performed largely in German, while the second was recorded in English and later dubbed into German. Filmed mostly on location in Bavaria rather than on studio sets, they have a distinct look and atmosphere that sets them apart from the familiar BBC series.

What impressed me most was the quality of the restoration. Considering these programmes are more than fifty years old, they look remarkably fresh. Jonathan Wood’s restoration work, overseen by Terry Gilliam, has brought new life to the original film elements, making this the best these episodes have ever looked.

Of course, the main attraction is the comedy itself, and it’s classic Python from start to finish. Familiar sketches and songs such as The Lumberjack Song and Silly Olympics are as funny as ever, while Gilliam’s wonderfully surreal animations remain a joy to watch. Seeing these well-loved sketches presented in such high quality gives them a new lease of life.

The bonus features are where this release really shines. Fans are treated to the rarely seen Fish-Slapping Dance performance from the 1971 German entertainment programme Euroshow, which alone is worth a look. Even better is Monty Python’s Montreux Special from 1971, which has been largely unavailable for decades. It gathers sketches from the first two series and includes material performed specifically for that special. Highlights include fresh takes on The Gascooker Sketch, Blackmail, The Ministry of Silly Walks, and the delightfully absurd exploding version of The Blue Danube.

Add in outtakes and additional extras, and this becomes far more than just a presentation of two obscure television episodes. It’s an affectionate celebration of Monty Python during one of the most creative periods in the group’s history.

Whether you’re a lifelong Python devotee or simply curious about this fascinating chapter of their story, Monty Python’s Fliegender Zirkus is an easy recommendation. The restoration is excellent, the extras are substantial, and the packaging is beautiful. For collectors and comedy fans alike, this is one of the most enjoyable and worthwhile Python releases in years.

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