The Secret Policeman’s Ball(s)

Let’s admit it: if you’re a nerd, you like you some good old-fashioned British humor. The Monty Python television and big screen performances are a staple in any geek’s library. That’s not to say that only the socially awkward and D&D fans are into this genre of comedy, and there are of course exceptions to every rule. But if you’re a fan of British humor, then The Secret Policeman’s Ball(s) will be right up your alley, nerd or not.

The Secret Policeman’s Balls are a series of comedy shows performed by members of the Monty Python gang (Cleese, Gilliam, Palin, Jones and Chapman), Beyond the Fringes group, and many others (like Billy Connoly and an adolescent favorite of your dear reviewer, Rowan Atkinson aka Mr. Bean). The shows were benefits for Amnesty International and included comedy bits and characters already made famous by their comic creators and live music sets. As the DVD box itself admits, The Secret Policeman’s Ball(s) paved the way for subsequent variety shows with political undertones like Farm Aid and Live Aid.

No one needs to be told that all of these guys, girls, and guys dressed as girls are funny, but the box set begins with a behind-the-scenes documentary that shows them all working on their acts and perfecting the skits. While the documentary is a bit dry and does not show the entire skits that appear on stage, it’s fascinating to watch the Monty Python gang bicker and brainstorm over what subtle changes need to be made to the characters or the lines to perfect their act. After the documentary on the same disk is the full first show- so after you see what went on behind the scenes you get to see them performed.

This DVD is packed to the brim with content. There are four full Balls, the documentary and a plethora of bonus features, totaling over eight hours. So whether you want to nerd-out with a case of Mountain Dew and a pallet of Doritos on an all-night binge or spread it out in a more responsible manner, there is plenty here to enjoy for quite a while. Odds are you’re going to find a favorite skit in all of these galas, see some great outtakes, and dig on some rare live sets.

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