If you want a film that boasts Python power (Monty, not the actual snake), then you can always watch A Liar’s Autobiography. But if you’re still craving the comic confections of the resurgent team, you’re probably also anticipating Absolutely Anything, which several of the gang have been working on since at least 2010 (and longer for Terry Jones). But good news! They have Gemma Arterton and Benedict Cumberbatch in talks for the film.
As though sponsored by one of the Upper Class Twits, the comedy has been bumbling along in development for a couple of years. John Oliver was attached back in 2010, but when word of it popped back up again at the start of this year, he wasn’t mentioned.
Terry Jones is directing the film, which will be based on a script he developed with Gavin Scott across the last 20 years. It finds a group of aliens – voiced by Jones, Terry Gilliam, John Cleese and Michael Palin – who decide to give a normal guy who works as a teacher the power to do anything as a lark to see what a cock-up he’ll make of the whole thing. Cue madness and a talking dog named Dennis (to be voiced by Robin Williams) who understands more about what’s going on than anyone else. Assuming he locks down a deal, Cumberbatch would be the teacher.
While we’re warned that it won’t be an actual Monty Python film, it certainly carries their comic sensibility. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for this one. It’s currently set to begin shooting next year. Which, incidentally, is when you can see A Liar's Autobiography - January 25, to be exact. Check out the trailer below.