British Comedy Guide

Flights of Fancy Page 2

I'm not sure (in this case) it was about Python being established and able to do what they want, but more that this sort of extended line suited Cleese's style, plus he could perform it to the others (who made the script decisions rather than an editor/producer) to prove that it would work.

Very few performers (or sitcom characters) can make a really long line work and the chances are they aren't working on the shows we're submitting to...which means long lines will just suck life from the sketch/sitcom. So script editors/producers will (rightly most of the time) just say "too long"

You could always break it up with a few interjections...

CLEESE: 'E's not pinin'! 'E's passed on! This parrot is no more! He has ceased to be! 'E's expired and gone to meet 'is maker!

PALIN: 'ee's alive!

CLEESE: 'E's a stiff! Bereft of life, 'e rests in peace! If you hadn't nailed 'im to the perch 'e'd be pushing up the daisies!

PALIN: Alright sir, if you'd like to...

CLEESE: 'Is metabolic processes are now 'istory! 'E's off the twig! 'E's kicked the bucket, 'e's shuffled off 'is mortal coil, run down the curtain and joined the bleedin' choir invisibile!! THIS IS AN EX-PARROT!!

Oh look at me, I think I can improve on Python. I do think this rhythm is better suited to 'modern' sketches though. TV had a lot fewer cuts back then, in olde tymes, nowadays its' better to reassure someone there will be a camera change, doesn't mean you have to wildly interrupt the flow, or the energy.

Quote: Seefacts @ September 4 2008, 6:27 PM BST

I've been told to cut down speeches in scripts. If it's too long, generally you probably need to take it out sadly.

I do like nothing more than give someone a big bit dialogue. It's fun to write.

I put it to you ladies and gentlemen of the Jury that...

I love doing courtroom stuff. You get to write big long speeches and show off.

:)

Quote: Griff @ September 8 2008, 2:02 PM BST

Actually I like Willie Garvin's idea of how to split that speech up. I'll bear it in mind.

Yeah, I'll often also stick in a 'Mmmm' or something to break it down a little.

Quote: Marc P @ September 8 2008, 1:59 PM BST

I put it to you ladies and gentlemen of the Jury that...

I love doing courtroom stuff. You get to write big long speeches and show off.

:)

:D

I'm only jealous because I LOVE showing off!

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