John Cleese is a British comedy legend and member of the iconic comedy troupe Monty Python. He has had a successful career in both television and film. In this article, we will explore the best movies from his extensive filmography, ranked based on critical acclaim and fan popularity.
Key Takeaways:
- Discover the top John Cleese movies that showcase his comedic genius.
- Explore his work with the legendary Monty Python comedy troupe.
- Learn about Cleese’s critically acclaimed performances in films such as “A Fish Called Wanda” and “Clockwise.”
- Uncover his memorable role in the Harry Potter film series.
- Find out about other notable films in which Cleese has appeared.
Monty Python Films
One of the highlights of John Cleese’s career is his work with the comedy ensemble Monty Python. Cleese collaborated with his fellow Python members to create several iconic films that have become beloved classics in the comedy genre.
A standout film from the Monty Python repertoire is Monty Python and the Holy Grail, a hilarious take on the Arthurian legend. This comedy masterpiece follows King Arthur and his knights as they embark on a ridiculous quest for the Holy Grail. Filled with memorable characters and absurd humor, it has become a cult favorite.
Another significant Monty Python film that showcases Cleese’s comedic prowess is Life of Brian. This satirical comedy set in biblical times explores the life of Brian Cohen, who is mistaken for the Messiah. The film cleverly tackles religious themes through sharp wit and intelligent humor, solidifying its status as a comedy classic.
Last but not least, And Now for Something Completely Different takes viewers on a hilarious journey through a compilation of sketch comedy from the Monty Python television show. Cleese’s talent for embodying various characters shines through in this film, as he delivers unforgettable performances in each sketch.
These Monty Python films represent the comedic brilliance of John Cleese and the entire Python ensemble. They have left an indelible mark on the world of comedy and continue to entertain audiences with their irreverent humor and timeless sketches.
A Fish Called Wanda
“A Fish Called Wanda” is one of John Cleese’s most successful films. He wrote and starred in this comedy about a jewel heist gone wrong. Cleese’s performance earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay, as well as critical acclaim for his comedic timing and chemistry with co-stars Jamie Lee Curtis and Kevin Kline.
John Cleese in “A Fish Called Wanda”
In “A Fish Called Wanda,” John Cleese showcases his exceptional comedic talent as both a writer and actor. The film tells the story of a group of eccentric characters planning a diamond heist, leading to a humorous clash of personalities and hilarious situations. Cleese’s portrayal of Archie Leach, a charming but neurotic barrister-turned-criminal, captivates audiences with his sharp wit and physical comedy skills.
“A Fish Called Wanda” stands out with its clever dialogue, unexpected plot twists, and memorable performances. Cleese’s collaboration with Jamie Lee Curtis, Kevin Kline, and Michael Palin creates an ensemble cast that expertly navigates the comedic moments, injecting the film with energy and laughter.
Notably, Cleese’s role in “A Fish Called Wanda” earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. His sharp and witty writing contributed to the film’s success, showcasing his ability to craft hilarious and intelligent comedy that resonates with audiences.
Critical Acclaim and Cultural Impact
The comedic brilliance of “A Fish Called Wanda” has garnered acclaim from both critics and audiences alike. It has enjoyed enduring popularity and remains a favorite among comedy enthusiasts. The film’s success is a testament to John Cleese’s talent and comedic sensibilities.
Furthermore, “A Fish Called Wanda” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its iconic scenes, memorable quotes, and comedic style have become part of the comedic lexicon, solidifying its place as a classic comedy film.
Highlights of “A Fish Called Wanda”
- John Cleese’s Oscar-nominated performance
- Brilliant ensemble cast
- Clever writing and witty dialogue
- Memorable comedic moments
- Enduring popularity and cultural impact
In summary, “A Fish Called Wanda” showcases John Cleese’s creative genius as a writer and actor. His Oscar-nominated performance and brilliant comedic timing contribute to the film’s enduring popularity and cultural significance. It remains a testament to Cleese’s comedic talent and solidifies his place as a British comedy legend.
Time Bandits
In the fantasy film Time Bandits, directed by Terry Gilliam, John Cleese plays a supporting role as the character Robin Hood. The film follows a young boy who travels through time with a group of dwarves on a quest for treasure. Cleese’s performance adds to the fantastical and whimsical nature of the film.
The unpredictable and visually stunning Time Bandits is a cult classic that combines adventurous storytelling with Terry Gilliam’s signature style. Cleese’s portrayal of Robin Hood brings humor and charm to the film, captivating audiences with his comedic talents.
“I see you’ve all come dressed as pirates. Ah! You there, with the parrot on your shoulder. Come over here. You look absolutely ridiculous!” – Robin Hood
Clockwise
In the British comedy film “Clockwise,” John Cleese delivers a remarkable performance as Brian Stimpson, an obsessively punctual headmaster. The movie revolves around Stimpson’s journey as he faces a series of comedic obstacles while attempting to make it to an important conference. Cleese’s talent for physical comedy and impeccable timing shines through in this hilarious portrayal.
A true gem of British cinema, “Clockwise” showcases Cleese’s comedic genius and solidifies his reputation as a top-tier actor in the genre. With its witty dialogue, outrageous situations, and cleverly crafted humor, the film delights audiences with a perfect blend of wit and slapstick. Cleese’s performance in “Clockwise” earned him critical acclaim and further cemented his status as a comedy icon.
“It’s not the despair, Laura. I can take the despair. It’s the hope I can’t stand.” – Brian Stimpson (John Cleese), Clockwise
John Cleese’s Accolades
| Award | Category | Result |
|---|---|---|
| BAFTA Awards | Best Original Screenplay | Nominated |
| London Critics’ Circle Film Awards | British Actor of the Year | Won |
| Evening Standard British Film Awards | Best Screenplay | Nominated |
And Now for Something Completely Different
“And Now for Something Completely Different” is a British comedy film that showcases the iconic Monty Python sketches. This compilation film brings together some of the most popular and hilarious moments from the Monty Python television show, delivering a non-stop dose of laughter to audiences.
“And Now for Something Completely Different” features John Cleese’s comedic brilliance as he takes on various roles throughout the film. From the classic “Dead Parrot Sketch” to the uproarious “Ministry of Silly Walks,” Cleese’s performances are unforgettable and showcase his impeccable timing and physical comedy skills.
The film captures the essence of British comedy at its finest, maintaining the irreverent and absurd humor that the Monty Python group is renowned for. Each sketch presents a different scenario and characters, allowing Cleese and his fellow Monty Python performers to shine in their comedic genius.
Whether you’re a fan of Monty Python or simply appreciate British comedy, “And Now for Something Completely Different” is a must-watch film. It brings together the best sketches, providing the perfect introduction to the world of Monty Python for newcomers, while also offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane for longtime fans.
Notable Sketches from “And Now for Something Completely Different”
| Sketch | Description |
|---|---|
| “Dead Parrot” | A customer tries to return a dead parrot to a pet shop, but the shop owner insists the parrot is just sleeping. |
| “Ministry of Silly Walks” | A government office dedicated to creating and regulating silly walks – a hilarious display of physical comedy. |
| “Argument Clinic” | A comedic exchange between two characters in which they provide pointless and contradictory arguments. |
| “The Lumberjack Song” | A lumberjack confesses his secret desire to be a woman while singing an amusingly catchy tune. |
If you’re craving a dose of British humor that will leave you in stitches, “And Now for Something Completely Different” is the perfect choice. It encapsulates the wit, silliness, and irreverence that have made Monty Python sketches timeless classics in the world of comedy.
Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life
“Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life” serves as the final masterpiece and the grand finale of the original Monty Python troupe. This sketch-based film takes viewers on a hilarious and thought-provoking journey through the different stages of life, offering absurd yet insightful perspectives on societal norms and existential questions.
Throughout the film, various sketches address themes such as birth, education, war, sex, and death, with the signature Monty Python wit and irreverence. One of the standout moments in the movie is the darkly comedic “The Grim Reaper” sketch, featuring John Cleese in a memorable and uproarious performance.
Harry Potter Films
John Cleese had a memorable role in the Harry Potter film series as Nearly Headless Nick, the ghost of Gryffindor’s house. While not a major character, Cleese brought humor and charm to the role, adding to the magical world of Hogwarts.
In the Harry Potter films, John Cleese’s portrayal of Nearly Headless Nick was delightful and entertaining. Nearly Headless Nick, also known as Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington, was a ghost who resided in Hogwarts Castle and provided comedic relief throughout the series. Cleese’s performance as the bumbling yet endearing ghost perfectly captured Nearly Headless Nick’s eccentric nature.
Despite not having a significant role in the overall storyline, John Cleese’s portrayal of Nearly Headless Nick left a lasting impression. The character’s distinctive appearance, with his severed head wobbling on his neck, added a touch of comedy and whimsy to the Harry Potter films.
“I was very glad to find myself with eight minutes of screen time playing Nearly Headless Nick in the Harry Potter films. I had a marvelous time playing a ghost with a sense of humor and being part of such a beloved franchise.”
The Magic of Nearly Headless Nick
Cleese’s portrayal of Nearly Headless Nick brought a unique energy to the Harry Potter films. His comedic timing and physicality added another layer of entertainment to the already magical world of Hogwarts. From his interactions with other characters to his hilarious attempts at beheading himself properly, Cleese’s performance as Nearly Headless Nick showcased his comedic talent.
One particularly memorable scene featuring Nearly Headless Nick is in “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.” In this scene, Nick is petrified by the Basilisk, a fearsome creature terrorizing Hogwarts, and becomes immobile, yet still manages to deliver humorous lines.
The presence of John Cleese as Nearly Headless Nick added depth to the Hogwarts ghost community and provided comic relief during tense moments in the films. The character’s lightheartedness and Cleese’s portrayal made Nearly Headless Nick a beloved fan favorite.
John Cleese’s Characters in Harry Potter Films
| Film | Character |
|---|---|
| Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone | Nearly Headless Nick |
| Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets | Nearly Headless Nick |
| Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban | Nearly Headless Nick (cameo) |
| Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire | Nearly Headless Nick (deleted scene) |
In the Harry Potter films, John Cleese brilliantly portrayed the quirky Nearly Headless Nick. Despite having limited screen time, Cleese’s comedic presence and unique portrayal made Nearly Headless Nick a memorable character in the wizarding world.
Other Notable Films
Apart from his iconic roles in Monty Python and the Harry Potter films, John Cleese has showcased his versatility in several other notable films. One such film is “Silverado,” a thrilling western directed by Lawrence Kasdan. Cleese’s performance in this film demonstrates his ability to excel in different genres, as he delivers a memorable portrayal of a complex character.
Another noteworthy film in Cleese’s repertoire is “A Liar’s Autobiography – The Untrue Story of Monty Python’s Graham Chapman.” This animated film is based on the life of Cleese’s Monty Python colleague, Graham Chapman. Cleese’s involvement in this project not only pays tribute to his comedic roots but also showcases his commitment to preserving the legacy of the Monty Python troupe.
In both “Silverado” and “A Liar’s Autobiography,” Cleese’s impeccable comedic timing and delivery shine through, adding depth and humor to each storyline. These films serve as a testament to Cleese’s ability to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression with his performances.
FAQ
What are the best John Cleese movies ranked?
The best John Cleese movies, ranked based on critical acclaim and fan popularity, include “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “Life of Brian,” “And Now for Something Completely Different,” “A Fish Called Wanda,” “Time Bandits,” “Clockwise,” “Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life,” and his roles in the Harry Potter films.
What are the Monty Python films?
The Monty Python films include “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “Life of Brian,” and “And Now for Something Completely Different.” These films showcase the comedic genius of the Monty Python ensemble, including John Cleese.
What is “A Fish Called Wanda” about?
“A Fish Called Wanda” is a comedy film written by and starring John Cleese. It revolves around a jewel heist gone wrong, and Cleese’s performance earned him an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay.
What is “Time Bandits” about?
“Time Bandits” is a fantasy film directed by Terry Gilliam. John Cleese plays a supporting role as the character Robin Hood. The film follows a young boy who travels through time with a group of dwarves on a quest for treasure.
What is “Clockwise” about?
“Clockwise” is a British comedy film in which John Cleese portrays Brian Stimpson, an obsessively punctual headmaster. The film follows Stimpson as he faces a series of comedic obstacles while trying to make it to an important conference.
What is “And Now for Something Completely Different”?
“And Now for Something Completely Different” is a British comedy film that features popular sketches from the Monty Python television show. John Cleese delivers memorable performances in various roles, showcasing his comedic talents.
What is “Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life”?
“Monty Python’s The Meaning of Life” is a sketch-based film that serves as the swan song for the original Monty Python troupe. John Cleese’s performances in this film, particularly in the darkly comedic “The Grim Reaper” sketch, are standout moments.
In which Harry Potter films did John Cleese appear?
John Cleese appeared in the Harry Potter film series as Nearly Headless Nick, the ghost of Gryffindor’s house. His humorous and charming portrayal added to the magical world of Hogwarts.
What are some other notable films featuring John Cleese?
Apart from his iconic roles in Monty Python and the Harry Potter films, John Cleese has appeared in several other notable films, including “Silverado,” a western film directed by Lawrence Kasdan, and “A Liar’s Autobiography – The Untrue Story of Monty Python’s Graham Chapman,” an animated film based on the life of Cleese’s Monty Python colleague. These films showcase Cleese’s versatility as an actor and his ability to bring humor to various genres.
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