Biography
John Marwood Cleese is an English actor, comedian, writer and film producer. He achieved success at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and as a scriptwriter and performer on The Frost Report. In the late 1960s he became a member of Monty Python, the comedy troupe responsible for the sketch show Monty Python's Flying Circus and the four Monty Python films: And Now for Something Completely Different, Holy Grail, Life of Brian and The Meaning of Life. In the mid 1970s, Cleese and his first wife Connie ...
Known For
Complete Filmography
John Cleese Packs It In
2025
Will he make it home ... or is this the end of the road? One of the most recognisable figures in British comedy, John Cleese's career spans six decad...
Fawlty Towers: A Very British Comedy
2025
A documentary exploring the legacy and controversies of “Fawlty Towers,” the iconic British sitcom. While Basil Fawlty’s antics continue to make peopl...
The Roast of John Cleese
2024
as Self
Some of Australia's funniest performers pay homage to international comedy legend, John Cleese. Firing good-natured insults & jokes at the guest of ho...
The Palace
2023
as Arthur William Dallas III
A comedy set on New Year’s Eve 1999 in a luxurious hotel in the Swiss Alps where the lives of various guests and those who work for them intersect.
The Martini Shot
2023
as Dr. Auyeung
This existential comedic drama follows an ailing film director as he begins to shoot what he believes to be his final work of art. What starts out as ...
Rally Road Racers
2023
as Archie Vainglorious (voice)
Zhi, a rookie race car driver, gets the opportunity to compete against the reigning champion of the rally car circuit. With help from a former driver-...
Fawlty Towers: 50 Years of Laughs
2023
as Self
A celebration of John Cleese and Connie Booth's acclaimed sitcom following the misadventures of Torquay hotel owner Basil Fawlty. The programme explor...
Daddy Daughter Trip
2022
as Frank
A 2nd grader dreams of a fun-filled spring break vacation—but her family can’t afford it. Against the better judgement of her mother, and with only co...
Clifford the Big Red Dog
2021
as Mr. Bridwell
As Emily struggles to fit in at home and at school, she discovers a small red puppy who is destined to become her best friend. When Clifford magically...
Father Christmas Is Back
2021
as John Christmas
Four sisters – Caroline, Joanna, Paulina, and Vicky – reunite for the Christmas Holiday in a Yorkshire mansion. However, their estranged father, James...
Why Are We (Not) Creative?
2021
as Self
In this second installment of his exploration of creativity, Hermann Vaske looks for factors that inhibit it. He asks artists, activists, and thinkers...
Alexander Pope: Rediscovering a Genius
2021
as Interviewee
Docudrama that recounts the astonishing life story of a forgotten genius, English poet Alexander Pope, who lived from 1688 to 1744.
Monty Python's Best Bits Celebrated
2021
as Self (archive footage)(uncredited)
Monty Python’s influence on comedy has been compared to the Beatles’ influence on music, a pivotal moment in the evolution of television humor. Celebr...
The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee
2020
as John
Paul Hogan is reluctantly thrust back into the spotlight as he desperately attempts to restore his sullied reputation on the eve of being knighted.
The Croods: A New Age
2020
Thanks, Characters
Searching for a safer habitat, the prehistoric Crood family discovers an idyllic, walled-in paradise that meets all of its needs. Unfortunately, they ...
Time Warp Vol. 3: Comedy and Camp
2020
as Self
The final volume of Time Warp digs deep into what makes us laugh over and over again as we reveal the greatest cult comedies and campy classics of all...
Time Warp Vol. 1: Midnight Madness
2020
as Self
From "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" to "The Big Lebowski" and everything in between, this fascinating deep-dive documentary begins its celebration of...
Assholes: A Theory
2019
as Himself
Some people grapple with the moral challenges of treating human beings decently. Others are just… assholes. Inspired by Aaron James’ New York Times be...
Arctic Dogs
2019
as Otto von Walrus (voice)
Animals band together to save the day when the evil Otto Von Walrus hatches a sinister scheme to accelerate global warming and melt the Arctic Circle.
Python at 50: Silly Talks and Holy Grails
2019
as Self (archive footage)
From ‘something completely different’ to icons of comedy and national treasures, this is a collection of rarely-seen Monty Python moments from the BBC...
The Naked Wanderer
2019
as Brian King
A heartbroken young man decides to walk 4000km up the coast of Western Australia naked, for charity, with the secret goal of making his ex-girlfriend ...
An Accidental Studio
2019
as Self (archive footage)
Charts the early years of HandMade Films seen through the eyes of the filmmakers, key personnel, and the man who started it all: former Beatle George ...
Elliot: The Littlest Reindeer
2018
as Donner (voice)
When Blitzen announces his retirement on December 21st, a miniature horse has 3 days to fulfill his lifelong dream of earning a spot on Santa's team a...
Why Are We Creative?
2018
as Self
A 30 years odyssey: the world's most intriguing artists and thinkers from the fields of visual art, music, filmmaking, acting, literature, philosophy,...
Charming
2018
as Fairy Godmother / Executioner (voice)
Three fairy tale princesses find themselves engaged to the same guy, Prince Charming.
Michael Palin: A Life on Screen
2018
This special one-hour documentary reflects on Michael Palin's fascinating career as a BAFTA-winning actor, writer and presenter.
Trolls
2016
as Roi Gristle (voice)
After the monstrous Bergens invade Troll Village, Princess Poppy, the happiest Troll ever born, and overly-cautious, curmudgeonly outcast Branch set o...
British Sitcom: 60 Years of Laughing at Ourselves
2016
as Basil Fawlty (archive footage) (uncredited)
Documentary celebrating the British sitcom and taking a look at the social and political context from which our favourite sitcoms grew. We enjoy a tri...
Albion: The Enchanted Stallion
2016
as General Eeder
A twelve-year-old girl is transported by a magical black stallion to the mystical world of Albion, where she discovers that she alone is the key to sa...
Behind Over the Garden Wall
2015
as Self
A special look at the making of Patrick McHale's award winning miniseries Over the Garden Wall.
A.C.O.R.N.S.: Operation Crackdown
2015
as Mr. Bellwood (voice)
After breaking out of a rehabilitation zoo, Frankie, a squirrel with all the angles, returns to his forest. He learns from his dim-witted best friend,...
Absolutely Anything
2015
as Chief Alien (voice)
Eccentric aliens give a man the power to do anything he wants to determine if Earth is worth saving.
Spud 3: Learning to Fly
2014
as Mr. 'The Guv' Edly
As Spud Milton continues his awkward stagger through adolescence, he learns one of life's most important lessons: When dealing with women and cretins,...
Monty Python: The Meaning of Live
2014
as Self
With unprecedented access, this program reveals the humour, chaos and passion that went into bringing the Flying Circus to the stage cumulating in the...
Monty Python Live (Mostly)
2014
as Self, others
Celebrate the last night of the Pythons on the big screen! With John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.
Monty Python Live (Mostly)
2014
Writer
Celebrate the last night of the Pythons on the big screen! With John Cleese, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.
Monty Python: And Now for Something Rather Similar
2014
as Self
Alan Yentob meets the five surviving members of Monty Python - John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones, Terry Gilliam and Eric Idle - as they prepare ...
The Meaning of Monty Python
2013
as Self
A discussion between John Cleese, Michael Palin, Eric Idle, Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones about their film The Meaning of Life
Planes
2013
as Bulldog (voice)
Dusty is a cropdusting plane who dreams of competing in a famous aerial race. The problem? He is hopelessly afraid of heights. With the support of his...
Spud 2: The Madness Continues
2013
as Mr. 'The Guv' Edly
The year is 1991, and Spud Milton's long walk to manhood is still creeping along at an unnervingly slow pace. Approaching the ripe old age of fifteen ...
The Croods
2013
Story
The prehistoric Croods family live in a particularly dangerous moment in time. Patriarch Grug, his mate Ugga, teenage daughter Eep, son Thunk, and fei...
The Many Faces of Ronnie Barker
2012
as Self
Programme telling the story of Ronnie Barker, a quiet dedicated actor who might have been a bank manager but went on to become one of the country's fa...
Anatomy of a Liar
2012
as Self
A documentary about A Liar's Autobiography: The Untrue Story of Monty Python's Graham Chapman.
A Liar's Autobiography: The Untrue Story of Monty Python's Graham Chapman
2012
as Various (voice)
John Cleese, Michael Palin, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam pay tribute to their late Monty Python colleague Graham Chapman in this hilarious, 3-D anima...
God Loves Caviar
2012
as McCormick
The true-life, stranger-than-fiction tale of eighteenth-century Greek pirate turned merchant Ioannis Varvakis, who rose from humble beginnings to beco...
Beethoven's Christmas Adventure
2011
as Narrator
A Christmas elf accidentally takes off in Santa's sleigh, crash lands in a small town, and loses the magic toy bag. Beethoven must rescue the elf, rec...
The Big Year
2011
as Historical Montage Narrator (voice)
Three fanatical bird-watchers spend an entire year competing to spot the highest number of species as El Nino sends an extraordinary variety of rare b...
John Cleese: The Alimony Tour Live
2011
For the first time ever, comedy legend John Cleese brings his unique comedic perspective to DVD in John Cleese: The Alimony Tour. Best known for his p...
The Undefeated
2011
as Self (archive footage)
A documentary that chronicles Sarah Palin's pre-political life; her tenure as Governor of Alaska, and her time spent as John McCain's running mate.
Winnie the Pooh
2011
as Narrator (voice)
During an ordinary day in Hundred Acre Wood, Winnie the Pooh sets out to find some honey. Misinterpreting a note from Christopher Robin, Owl convinces...
Spud
2010
as Mr. 'The Guv' Edly
It's South Africa 1990. Two major events are about to happen: The release of Nelson Mandela and, more importantly, it's Spud Milton's first year at an...
Shrek Forever After
2010
as King Harold (voice)
A bored and domesticated Shrek pacts with deal-maker Rumpelstiltskin to get back to feeling like a real ogre again, but when he's duped and sent to a ...
Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut) - Theatrical Release
2010
as Self
This is a theatrical / movie adaptation of the TV Miniseries. Its chapters do not align with the episodes directly, so it necessarily must be held sep...
Planet 51
2009
as Professor Kipple (voice)
When Earth astronaut Capt. Chuck Baker arrives on Planet 51 -- a world reminiscent of American suburbia circa 1950 -- he tries to avoid capture, recov...
Fawlty Exclusive: Basil's Best Bits
2009
as Self / Basil Fawlty
Fawlty Exclusive: Basil's Best Bits” is a two hour journey through the very best of Fawlty Towers with cast and crew, together with some of the show's...
Fawlty Towers: Re-Opened
2009
as Self / Basil Fawlty
30 years after Fawlty Towers (1975) ended, Stephen Fry narrates a documentary about the making of this classic sitcom.
The Pink Panther 2
2009
as Dreyfus
When legendary treasures from around the world are stolen, including the priceless Pink Panther Diamond, Chief Inspector Dreyfus is forced to assign I...
The Day the Earth Stood Still
2008
as Professor Barnhardt
A representative of an alien race that went through drastic evolution to survive its own climate change, Klaatu comes to Earth to assess whether human...
We Are Most Amused
2008
as Self - Presenter
We Are Most Amused was a gala event held at the New Wimbledon Theatre on 12 November 2008 in honour of the 60th birthday of Charles, Prince of Wales, ...
Gaybo Laughs Back
2008
as Self
Gaybo Laughs Back is an hour-long special, hosted by Gay Byrne who introduces some of the comedy highlights from his thirty-seven years at the helm of...
Igor
2008
as Dr. Glickenstein (voice)
A cliché hunchbacked evil scientist's assistant aspires to become a scientist himself, much to the displeasure of the rest of the evil science communi...
Monty Python: Before the Flying Circus
2008
as Self
Discover how six seemingly ordinary but supremely talented men became Monty Python, sketch comedy's inspired group of lunatics who turned such unlikel...
The Seventh Python
2008
as Self
Sean Connors Films, Ltd. Presents a Frozen Pictures production of The Seventh Python, a nonfiction musical feature film based on the life, work and un...
Marty Feldman: Six Degrees of Separation
2008
as Self
A documentary about the legendary and influential comedian, actor and writer, who went out from the BBC to conquer Hollywood, but sadly the system qui...
Life Of Brian Screenplay
2008
as Wise Man #1, Reg, Jewish Official, First Centurion
An original illustrated 110 minute recording by The Pythons of their early screenplay in progress.
Life Of Brian Screenplay
2008
Screenplay
An original illustrated 110 minute recording by The Pythons of their early screenplay in progress.
Monty Python Conquers America
2008
as Self
This documentary follows the evolution of the British sketch comedy troupe that redefined humor and shaped an entire generation of American comics, fo...
Shrek the Third
2007
as King Harold (voice)
The King of Far Far Away has died and Shrek and Fiona are to become King & Queen. However, Shrek wants to return to his cozy swamp and live in peace a...
Hitler: The Comedy Years
2007
as Adolf Hitler / Basil Fawlty (archive footage) (uncredited)
A documentary about the portrayal of Adolf Hitler in popular culture.
The Secret Life of Brian
2007
as Self
A documentary about the making of the controversial Life of Brian and the surrounding accusations of blasphemy.
What the Pythons Did Next...
2007
as Self (archive footage)
A look at the careers of John Cleese, Eric Idle, Graham Chapman, Michael Palin, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam in the years after Monty Python's Flying...
Charlotte's Web
2006
as Samuel the Sheep (voice)
Wilbur the pig is scared of the end of the season, because he knows that come that time, he will end up on the dinner table. He hatches a plan with Ch...
The South Bank Show: Spamalot
2006
Eric Idle is interviewed by Melvyn Bragg in this 2006 episode of The South Bank Show (1978). The surviving members of Monty Python discuss the huge su...
L'Entente cordiale
2006
as Lord Conrad
The upper-class secret agent teaming up accidentally with an easily-corrupted, sly interpreter...
Man About Town
2006
as Dr. Primkin
A top Hollywood talent agent finds his cushy existence threatened when he discovers that his wife is cheating on him and that his journal has been swi...
The Art of Football from A to Z
2006
as Self
Funnyman John Cleese leads viewers through an exhaustive -- and hilarious -- tour of the world of soccer, complete with the sport's most memorable goa...
The Art of Football from A to Z
2006
Executive Producer
Funnyman John Cleese leads viewers through an exhaustive -- and hilarious -- tour of the world of soccer, complete with the sport's most memorable goa...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—John Cleese's Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. The show...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—Michael Palin's Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. The show...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—Terry Gilliam's Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. The sho...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—Terry Jones' Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. From his...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—Graham Chapman's Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. The five...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—Eric Idle's Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. Reportin...
Monty Python's Flying Circus—Graham Chapman's Personal Best
2006
as Various Characters
Monty Python's Personal Best is a miniseries of six one-hour specials, each showcasing the contributions of a particular Monty Python member. The five...
Return of the Goodies
2005
as Himself
The Goodies finally return to television after nearly 25 years with a compilation of classic clips, interviews and new material.
Fawlty Towers Revisited
2005
as Himself
Fawlty Towers Revisited features the 80-minute, 30th anniversary retrospective TV special on one of the world’s funniest and best-loved comedies, as w...
The Roots of Monty Python
2005
as Self (archive footage)
A look back at the origins of the ground breaking BBC comedy series Monty Python's Flying Circus.
Valiant
2005
as Mercury (voice)
Set in 1944, Valiant is a woodland pigeon who wants to become a great hero someday. When he hears they are hiring recruits for the Royal Homing Pigeon...
The Funny Blokes of British Comedy
2005
as Himself
Movie with some of the greatest brittish comedians such as Rowan Atkinson, John Cleese.
Complete Guide to Guys
2005
as Noted Behavioral Scientist / Noted Doctor / Leading Social Scientist / Leading Orthopedic Surgeon
Based on Dave Barry's book, the Complete guide to guys follows guyness from prehistoroc times, to current times and explains many of the mysteries we ...
Remember the Secret Policeman's Ball?
2004
as Self
The Secret Policeman benefit shows for Amnesty International brought together comedy grand masters - from Python and Beyond the Fringe - and performer...
Wine for the Confused
2004
as Self
Wine is confusing…overwhelming even. So where do you start if you want to learn more about it? Join John Cleese on an entertaining and personal look a...
Around the World in 80 Days
2004
as Grizzled Sergeant
A bet pits a British inventor, a Chinese thief and a French artist on a worldwide adventure that they can circle the globe in 80 days.
The Magic Touch of Harry Potter
2004
as Self
A 2004 documentary on the first three “Harry Potter” films detailing the behind-the-scenes journey of making them.
Shrek 2
2004
as King Harold (voice)
Shrek, Fiona, and Donkey set off to Far, Far Away to meet Fiona's mother and father, the Queen and King. But not everyone is happily ever after. Shrek...
The Best of Monty Python's Flying Circus Volume 2
2004
as Self (archive footage)
All the best sketches from the second series of the ground-breaking comedy. Memorable moments include: 'It's in the Mind'; 'The New Cooker Sketch'; 'N...
The Best of Monty Python's Flying Circus Volume 1
2004
as Self (archive footage)
Compilation of the best Sketches of the first series of Monty Python's Flying Circus, which ran from 5 October 1969 to 11 January 1970. Memorable mom...
The Best of Monty Python's Flying Circus Volume 3
2004
as Self (archive footage)
All the best sketches from the third and fourth series of the ground-breaking comedy. Memorable moments include: 'The Finals of the All-England Summar...
Concert for George
2003
as Self
As a memorial to George Harrison on the first anniversary of his passing, The Concert for George was held at the Royal Albert Hall in London on 29 Nov...
The Meaning of Making 'The Meaning of Life'
2003
as Self
The behind-the-scenes production documentary of Monty Python's 'Meaning Of Life.' This documentary is featured on the 2-disc Special Edition DVD for ...
George of the Jungle 2
2003
as An Ape Named 'Ape' (voice)
George and Ursula now have a son, George Junior, so Ursula's mother arrives to try and take them back to "civilization".
Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle
2003
as Mr. Munday
The Angels are charged with finding a pair of missing rings that are encoded with the personal information of members of the Witness Protection Progra...
Scorched
2003
as Charles Merchant
Three mischievous employees of a bank in a small deserted town all make plans to rob it at the same time, however none of them knows about the others.
Stupidity
2003
as Self
An exploration into the nature of stupidity in Western society and its history of our perception of it.
Best Ever Bond
2002
as Self / R
Roger Moore presents the ten best sequences ever to have appeared in the James Bond series, and cast members recall their favourite moments.
Die Another Day: From Script to Screen
2002
as Self
A documentary about Die Another Day.
Die Another Day
2002
as Q
James Bond is sent to investigate the connection between a North Korean terrorist and a diamond mogul, who is funding the development of an internatio...
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
2002
as Nearly Headless Nick (Sir Nicholas)
Cars fly, trees fight back, and a mysterious house-elf comes to warn Harry Potter at the start of his second year at Hogwarts. Adventure and danger aw...
The Adventures of Pluto Nash
2002
as James
The year is 2087, the setting is the moon. Pluto Nash, the high-flying successful owner of the hottest nightclub in the universe, finds himself in tro...
Making Rat Race
2002
as Himself
Peter Cook: At a Slight Angle to the Universe
2002
as Self
TV documentary tracing the life of the comedian and satirist from his school days, through the Cambridge Footlights, to Beyond the Fringe and his part...
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
2001
as Nearly Headless Nick
Harry Potter has lived under the stairs at his aunt and uncle's house his whole life. But on his 11th birthday, he learns he's a powerful wizard—with ...
Mickey's House of Villains
2001
as Narrator (“Mickey's Mechanical House") (uncredited)
The villains from the popular animated Disney films are gathered at the House of Mouse with plans to take over. Soon, the villains take over the house...
Mickey's Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse
2001
as Narrator (segment 'The Nutcracker') (voice)
When a huge snowstorm leaves everyone stranded, Mickey and all of his guests at the House of Mouse, including Pooh, Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, Ari...
Rat Race
2001
as Donald P. Sinclair
In an ensemble film about easy money, greed, manipulation and bad driving, a Las Vegas casino tycoon entertains his wealthiest high rollers -- a group...
Fawlty Towers: An Interview with John Cleese
2001
as Kendisi
The Magic Pudding
2000
as Albert the Magic Pudding (voice)
Meet Albert, The Magic Pudding, Bunyip Bluegum, a splendid young koala and his seafaring friends Bill Barnacle and Sam Sawnoff. Together they fight of...
Edwurd Fudwupper Fibbed Big
2000
as The Giant Alien (voice)
Edwurd Fudwupper spends all his time cooking up big fibs. But one day, he tells such a humdinger that the army, the air force and the dog catcher are ...
The Life of Python
2000
as Self
Celebrating their 30th anniversary, Monty Python presents exclusive new material and so-called classic bits. Disc : 1 Contains 1:It's The Monty Pyth...
Quantum Project
2000
as Alexander Pentcho
Quantum Project is the story of physicist and prodigy Paul Pentcho (Stephen Dorff), whose exploration of the quantum universe leads him on a collision...
Isn't She Great
2000
as Henry Marcus
An unsuccessful over-the-top actress becomes a successful over-the-top authoress in this biography of Jacqueline Susann.
Now Pay Attention 007: A Tribute to Actor Desmond Llewelyn
2000
as Self
Rockstar
2000
as Interviewer in lounge
In November, 1999, Apple brought together a group of people under its AppleMaster program to teach them to use their new digital video editing softwar...
The World Is Not Enough
1999
as R
Greed, revenge, world dominance and high-tech terrorism – it's all in a day's work for Bond, who's on a mission to protect a beautiful oil heiress fro...
The Nutcracker
1999
as Narrator
An animated short produced by Walt Disney Television Animation, the contemporary twist on a classic tale sees Mickey, Donald and Minnie in the roles o...
Monty Python: 30th Anniversary Sketches
1999
as Self
The Sketches produced by the surviving Pythons for the BBC's celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the first showing of Monty Python on 5 October 196...
Monty Python: From Spam to Sperm
1999
as Self
Meatloaf introduces a look back at Python's use of music. Included interviews with the team, André Jacquemin and other conspirators.
The Monty Python Story
1999
as Self
The story behind how the comedy sketch group Monty Python formed in 1969, and lead to four very series, and four very funny films that are still has f...
Parting Shots
1999
as Maurice Walpole
Harry Sterndale, a failed photographer, is given a diagnosis of cancer and told that he has only three months to live. After thinking things over, he ...
The Out-of-Towners
1999
as Mr. Mersault
The adventures of married couple Henry and Nancy Clark, vexed by misfortune while in New York City for Henry's job interview.
In The Wild: Operation Lemur With John Cleese
1998
as Self
John Cleese travels to Madagascar to meet some lemurs.
Monty Python: Live at Aspen
1998
as Self
In March 1998 in Aspen, Colorado, the surviving members of the Monty Python team – John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Pali...
George of the Jungle
1997
as An Ape Named 'Ape' (voice)
Deep in the African jungle, a baby named George, the sole survivor of a plane crash, is raised by gorillas. George grows up to be a buff and lovable k...
Fierce Creatures
1997
as Rollo Lee
Ex-policeman Rollo Lee is sent to run Marwood Zoo, the newly acquired business of a New Zealand tycoon. In order to meet high profit targets and keep ...
Fierce Creatures
1997
Screenplay, Producer
Ex-policeman Rollo Lee is sent to run Marwood Zoo, the newly acquired business of a New Zealand tycoon. In order to meet high profit targets and keep ...
The Wind in the Willows
1996
as Mr. Toad's Lawyer
Jailed for his reckless driving, rambunctious Mr. Toad has to escape from prison when his beloved Toad Hall comes under threat from the wily weasels, ...
Spike
1996
as Himself
Spike personally tells the story of his life from India, World War II to The Goons and his Q series
The Jungle Book
1994
as Dr. Julius Plumford
Raised by wild animals since childhood, Mowgli is drawn away from the jungle by the beautiful Kitty. But Mowgli must eventually face corrupt Capt. Boo...
The Swan Princess
1994
as Jean-Bob (voice)
The beautiful princess Odette is transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer's spell. Held captive at an enchanted lake, she befriends Jean-Bob the fr...
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein
1994
as Prof. Waldman
Victor Frankenstein is a promising young doctor who, devastated by the death of his mother during childbirth, becomes obsessed with bringing the dead ...
Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are?
1993
Dr. Seuss's irrepressible optimism is front and center in Did I Ever Tell You How Lucky You Are? The perfect send-off for grads getting ready to ventu...
Splitting Heirs
1993
as Raoul P. Shadgrind
A member of the English upper class dies, leaving his estate and his business to an American, whom he thinks is his son who was lost as a baby and the...
Amnesty International's Big 30
1991
as Self
In the tradition of the acclaimed series of British concerts known as The Secret Policemen's Ball, Amnesty International celebrates its 50th Anniversa...
An American Tail: Fievel Goes West
1991
as Cat R. Waul (voice)
Some time after the Mousekewitz's have settled in America, they find that they are still having problems with the threat of cats. That makes them eage...
Rabbit Ears - Tom Thumb
1991
as Narrator (voice)
Tiny Tom, no larger than his father's thumb, embarks on a series of fantastical adventures that lead him to King Arthur's court. After saving King Art...
The Muppets Celebrate Jim Henson
1990
as Self
While the Muppets prepare a tribute to the late Jim Henson, they learn about the life and career of the renowned puppeteer/film maker.
Bullseye!
1990
as Man on the Beach in Barbados Who Looks Like John Cleese
Spies force two British con men to pose as look-alike scientists peddling cheap-energy fusion.
Life of Python
1990
as Himself / Various Roles (also archive footage)
This BBC documentary tells the history of the Python group, allowing a few glimpses at the works of its predecessors (At Last the 1948 Show, Do Not Ad...
Quark the Dragon Slayer
1989
Collection of several Danish animated shorts stitched together to make a Feature. Animations aired in Denmark December 2, 1987: The feature includes t...
Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python
1989
as Self / Various Characters
Steve Martin presents selected sketches from "Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969)". It's the well known sketches, though the parrot sketch is not incl...
Parrot Sketch Not Included: Twenty Years of Monty Python
1989
Writer
Steve Martin presents selected sketches from "Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969)". It's the well known sketches, though the parrot sketch is not incl...
The Big Picture
1989
as Bartender
Hollywood beckons for recent film school grad Nick Chapman, who is out to capitalize on the momentum from his national award-winning student film. Stu...
Erik the Viking
1989
as Halfdan the Black
Erik the Viking gathers warriors from his village and sets out on a dangerous journey to Valhalla, to ask the gods to end the Age of Ragnorok and allo...
The Movie Life of George
1989
as Self
When EMI refused to produce Monty Python's Life of Brian, George Harrison founded Handmade Pictures so that he could see the film. This is the story o...
The Secret Policeman’s Biggest Ball
1989
as Self
After the criticisms of the 1987 show’s disproportionate focus on music - and the financial disaster of its music-only Festival Of Youth weekend conce...
Bosses From Hell
1989
as Brian
John Cleese training video about bosses.
Customers From Hell
1989
as Brian
John Cleese training video on customers.
Communicators From Hell
1989
as Brian
John Cleese training video.
Employees From Hell
1989
as Brian
John Cleese training video about employees.
A Fish Called Wanda
1988
as Archie Leach
While a diamond advocate attempts to steal a collection of diamonds, troubles arise when he realises he’s not the only one after the collection.
A Fish Called Wanda
1988
Executive Producer, Writer
While a diamond advocate attempts to steal a collection of diamonds, troubles arise when he realises he’s not the only one after the collection.
John Cleese's First Farewell Performance
1988
as Self
A feature length documentary on the making of A Fish Called Wanda
Dragonslayer Quark
1987
Cartoon short about Quark the troll, this time as a dragonslayer by chance.
Baby Quark
1987
Tells the beginning of the story of Quark: His birth and how he is thrown out by his parents due to his malicious behaviour.
Quark and the Highway Robber
1987
Quark the troll meets a highway robber.
The Grand Knockout Tournament
1987
as Self
The Grand Knockout Tournament (colloquially also known as It's a Royal Knockout) was a one-off charity event which was shown on British television on ...
The Secret Policeman’s Third Ball
1987
as Jim Cleese
When the British Amnesty shows finally resumed in 1987 after a six-year hiatus, the show format was retooled in an effort to take advantage of the gro...
Clockwise
1986
as Brian Stimpson
School headmaster Brian Stimpson is obsessed with timeliness, order, and discipline. Brian misses his train after meticulously preparing a speech for ...
The South Bank Show: John Cleese
1986
John Cleese is interviewed by Melvyn Bragg in this 1986 episode of The South Bank Show (1978). Cleese speaks of his comedy background, writing for Tha...
Silverado
1985
as Sheriff John T. Langston
Four unwitting heroes cross paths on their journey to the sleepy town of Silverado. Little do they know the town where their family and friends reside...
Gonzo Presents Muppet Weird Stuff
1985
as Self
Gonzo hosts this collection of some of the weirdest moments from The Muppet Show at his trailer home, assisted by Camilia and visited by Kermit The Fr...
Yellowbeard
1983
as Harvey 'Blind' Pew
For years Yellowbeard had looted the Spanish Main, making men eat their lips and swallow their hearts. Caught and convicted for tax evasion, he's sent...
Group Madness
1983
as Self
A behind-the-scenes documentary of the making of 1983's Yellowbeard
Monty Python's The Meaning of Life
1983
as Various Roles
Life's questions are 'answered' in a series of outrageous vignettes, beginning with a staid London insurance company which transforms before our eyes ...
Monty Python's The Meaning of Life
1983
Screenplay
Life's questions are 'answered' in a series of outrageous vignettes, beginning with a staid London insurance company which transforms before our eyes ...
Privates on Parade
1983
as Major Giles Flack
It is 1947, the year of the communist rebellion in Malaya and the British army's SADUSEA (Song And Dance Unit South East Asia) are called to the Malay...
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl
1982
as Various Roles
Monty Python perform many of their greatest sketches at the Hollywood Bowl, including several from pre-Python days.
Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl
1982
Writer
Monty Python perform many of their greatest sketches at the Hollywood Bowl, including several from pre-Python days.
The Secret Policeman's Other Ball
1982
as Self - Various Roles
Following the success of the 1979 show and the financial benefits accruing to Amnesty from the spin-off movie, TV special and record albums – Cleese, ...
The Secret Policeman's Other Ball
1982
Assistant Director, Producer
Following the success of the 1979 show and the financial benefits accruing to Amnesty from the spin-off movie, TV special and record albums – Cleese, ...
Time Bandits
1981
as Robin Hood
Young history buff Kevin can scarcely believe it when six dwarfs emerge from his closet one night. Former employees of the Supreme Being, they've purl...
The Great Muppet Caper
1981
as Neville
Kermit and Fozzie are newspaper reporters sent to London to interview Lady Holiday, a wealthy fashion designer whose priceless diamond necklace is sto...
The Tom Machine
1980
as Computer (voice)
100 years in the future: Tom is both bored and worried in the humdrum, violent times. Also he is unable to remember what his job is and thus decides t...
Peter Cook & Co.
1980
as Himself / Various Characters
A TV Special consisting of various sketches with the titular comedian and fellow comics in guest appearances.
The Queen Special
1980
as Man in Bar
Promotional special for the band's albums "The Game" and "Flash Gordon," featuring concert sequences, music videos, and celebrity cameos.
The Taming of the Shrew
1980
as Petruchio
Baptista has two daughters: Kate and Bianca. Everyone wants to wed the fair Bianca, but nobody's much interested in problem child, Kate. Baptista decl...
The Secret Policeman's Ball
1979
as Himself - Various Roles
Amnesty decided not to present a benefit show in 1978 in order to consider how to make better use of the performing talent so favourably disposed to a...
The Secret Policeman's Ball
1979
Producer, Stage Director
Amnesty decided not to present a benefit show in 1978 in order to consider how to make better use of the performing talent so favourably disposed to a...
Doctor Who: City of Death
1979
as Art Gallery Visitor
While taking in the sights of Paris in 1979, the Doctor and Romana sense that someone is tampering with time. Who is the mysterious Count Scarlioni? W...
Golden Gordon
1979
as Passerby
Barnestoneworth United is the worst football team of 1935, who lose every match. Gordon Ottershaw is, however, their loyal fan, determined to prevent ...
Life of Brian
1979
as Wise Man #1 / Reg / Jewish Official / First Centurion / Deadly Dirk / Arthur
Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he's not dodging his...
Life of Brian
1979
Screenplay
Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he's not dodging his...
The Pythons: Somewhere in Tunisia, Circa A.D. 1979
1979
as Self
Ten years ago exactly, more or less, give or take a day or two, six young men sat down, or maybe stood, or perhaps some of them just lounged, and wrot...
...To Norway, Home of Giants!
1979
as Norman Fearless
The norwegian Montreux contribution of 1979. Norwegians ridiculing themselves, with the help from John Cleese.
Away from It All
1979
as Nigel Farquhar-Bennett – Narrator (voice)
Mock travelogue that was shown in cinemas before "Life of Brian."
Away from It All
1979
Director, Writer
Mock travelogue that was shown in cinemas before "Life of Brian."
Snavely
1978
Creator
Henry Snavely is a cynical hotelier that in this pilot is faced with the threat of hotel inspectors.
The Strange Case of the End of Civilization as We Know It
1977
as Sherlock Holmes
John Cleese is hilarious as the descendant of Sherlock Holmes in this modern detective drama of international power politics and intrigue. Unlike his ...
The Strange Case of the End of Civilization as We Know It
1977
Screenplay
John Cleese is hilarious as the descendant of Sherlock Holmes in this modern detective drama of international power politics and intrigue. Unlike his ...
The Mermaid Frolics
1977
as Self- Various roles
In May 1977 a second Amnesty benefit was held to build on the success of the first show and with the intent of developing momentum for a regularly-sch...
The Mermaid Frolics
1977
Writer
In May 1977 a second Amnesty benefit was held to build on the success of the first show and with the intent of developing momentum for a regularly-sch...
Three Piece Suite
1977
as Kevin
Miniseries comprising short plays featuring Diana Rigg and guests.
Pleasure at Her Majesty's
1976
as Self
The first of the Amnesty International comedy benefit galas. The title is a play on the phrase at Her Majesty's pleasure (the show was performed at He...
Meetings, Bloody Meetings
1976
John Cleese shows that, properly planned and organised, a meeting can achieve more in a short time than any other method of internal communication. Ma...
How Not to Exhibit Yourself
1975
as John Cleese
The objective of this training video is to teach stand staff how to present themselves and their organisation in a professional and organised manner. ...
More Awkward Customers
1975
as Brian
Emphasises the importance of professional knowledge of an organisation’s stocks or services in dealing with difficult customers. Highlights the custom...
More Awkward Customers
1975
Writer
Emphasises the importance of professional knowledge of an organisation’s stocks or services in dealing with difficult customers. Highlights the custom...
Awkward Customers
1975
as Brian
Shows John Cleese learning how to deal with "difficult customers" in a professional yet friendly manner and turn them into clients.
Awkward Customers
1975
Writer
Shows John Cleese learning how to deal with "difficult customers" in a professional yet friendly manner and turn them into clients.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
1975
as Second Swallow-Savvy Guard / The Black Knight / Peasant 3 / Sir Launcelot the Brave / Taunting French Guard / Tim the Enchanter
King Arthur, accompanied by his squire, recruits his Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Bedevere the Wise, Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Robin th...
Monty Python and the Holy Grail
1975
Writer
King Arthur, accompanied by his squire, recruits his Knights of the Round Table, including Sir Bedevere the Wise, Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Robin th...
Monty Python & the Holy Grail Location Report
1974
as Self
An documentarian from the BBC visits the set of Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975). This documentary shouldn't be viewed as a making of the film, ...
Romance with a Double Bass
1974
as Smychkov
A bassist shows up early for the betrothal ball of a beautiful princess, and whiles away the time having a dip in the river. The princess is doing the...
Romance with a Double Bass
1974
Adaptation
A bassist shows up early for the betrothal ball of a beautiful princess, and whiles away the time having a dip in the river. The princess is doing the...
Is This a Record?
1973
as Various
John Cleese, Michael Palin and Terry Jones celebrate the Guinness Book of World Records.
Is This a Record?
1973
Additional Writing
John Cleese, Michael Palin and Terry Jones celebrate the Guinness Book of World Records.
Elementary, My Dear Watson
1973
as Sherlock Holmes
John Cleese stars as Sherlock Holmes in this Comedy Playhouse pilot episode from 1973.
Monty Python In The Netherlands
1973
Monty Python sketch created for Dutch television in 1973.
The Love Ban
1973
as Contraceptives Lecturer
In this 1970s comedy, a Catholic man contemplates going against his priest's guidance on contraceptives when his wife wants to stop having children.
Rentadick
1972
Writer
Armitage runs a chemical company that is on the verge of producing a gas that causes temporary disability. Clearly the military want it but it is also...
Who Sold You This, Then?
1972
A BAFTA award nominated, light-hearted, documentary looking at the part the service engineer can play in making or destroying his company's reputation...
Who Sold You This, Then?
1972
Script
A BAFTA award nominated, light-hearted, documentary looking at the part the service engineer can play in making or destroying his company's reputation...
The Great Birds Eye Peas Relaunch 1971
1971
One of the least-known Monty Python rarities is “The Great Birds Eye Peas Relaunch of 1971,” a short advertising film that was made for the Birds Eye ...
The Great Birds Eye Peas Relaunch 1971
1971
Writer
One of the least-known Monty Python rarities is “The Great Birds Eye Peas Relaunch of 1971,” a short advertising film that was made for the Birds Eye ...
And Now for Something Completely Different
1971
as Announcer / Hungarian Citizen / self - Defence Teacher / Sir George Head / Policeman / Interviewer / Mr. Praline / Second General / Christopher Columbus / Mungo the Cook / Bank Robber / Accountant #2 (falling past the window) / Vocational Guidance Counselor / Vivian Smith Smythe Smith / Mountie / Town Guild Lady
A collection of Monty Python's Flying Circus skits from the first two seasons of their British TV series.
And Now for Something Completely Different
1971
Screenplay
A collection of Monty Python's Flying Circus skits from the first two seasons of their British TV series.
Euroshow '71: May Day Special
1971
as Self - Various (as Montypython Flyingcircus)
German made-for-TV musical extravaganza starring Monty Python.
The Statue
1971
as Harry
Bolt, a British linguist, develops a universal language, so he's a sudden sensation and receives a Nobel prize. An ambitious diplomat, capitalizing on...
The Rise and Rise of Michael Rimmer
1970
as Pumer
Fresh-faced young Michael Rimmer worms his way into an opinion poll company and is soon running the place. He uses this as a springboard to get into p...
The Rise and Rise of Michael Rimmer
1970
Writer
Fresh-faced young Michael Rimmer worms his way into an opinion poll company and is soon running the place. He uses this as a springboard to get into p...
Monty Python: Who's There?
1970
as Timothy
An instructional film about canvassing, for the Labour Party and starring the Python team, showing Labour Party workers how to canvass for votes. Film...
The Magic Christian
1969
as Director in Sotheby's
Sir Guy Grand, the richest man in the world, adopts a homeless man, Youngman. Together, they set out to prove that anyone--and anything--can be bought...
The Magic Christian
1969
Additional Writing
Sir Guy Grand, the richest man in the world, adopts a homeless man, Youngman. Together, they set out to prove that anyone--and anything--can be bought...
How to Irritate People
1969
as Himself - Various
A pre-Monty Python mockumentary, written by and presented by John Cleese, that provides tips on learning how to irritate people.
How to Irritate People
1969
Writer
A pre-Monty Python mockumentary, written by and presented by John Cleese, that provides tips on learning how to irritate people.
The Best House in London
1969
as Jones
In Victorian London, the British Government attempts a solution to the problem of prostitution by establishing the world's most fabulous brothel.
The Bliss of Mrs. Blossom
1968
as Post Office Clerk
Harriet Blossom is married to Robert Blossom, a businessman who'd rather spend the night at his bra factory than at home with her. One day, Harriet's ...
Interlude
1968
as Television public relations man
A young female journalist in London falls in love with a married orchestra conductor.
How to Make Her Cheat
N/A
as Terry
Weeks away from his wedding, an insecure guy puts his fiancée through a series of tests to see if she would cheat before they tie the knot.
Nuclear Bogeyheads
N/A
as bogeyhead
Lost direct-to-video action comedy
Taking The Wheel
N/A
as Nathan
Taking the Wheel is a dark comedy about the complicated relationship between an obstinate 90-year-old woman who refuses to give up driving, and her we...