5.0 out of 5 stars
I disagree with the other reviewers, Feb 22 2001
This is the weakest of the three Ripping Yarns tapes, but even at their weakest, Michael Palin and Terry Jones are brilliant.
In this, the third and final season of the show, the stories are all based around British upper class characters. Unfortunately the writing isn't quite as good in the first two episodes: It lapses into caricature a little bit too much for my taste. I prefer the stories that show Palin in and around his native Sheffield - Eric Olthwaite and Golden Gordon (from season 1 and 2 of the show - not on this tape) are my favourites, but I'm biased - I'm from Sheffield myself, and these two episodes bring back memories of my childhood.
Anyway, unlike the other reviewers, my favourite out of these three episodes has to be 'Across the Andes by Frog'. The episode has the best writing, and the characters work brilliantly, illustrating the complete inability of any of the British characters (all from different classes) to communicate with each other, or with anyone else. It's classic, and it points out very clearly but subtly the flaws in a class-ridden society and in the ideals of early 20th century imperialism.
The role of the Sergeant Major is brilliantly played, and his every word and expression is timed flawlessly. In the end, the working class British soldiers are the only ones to successfully communicate with the natives. Unfortunately, they communicate rather too well, leading to a growing anarchy, and finally to a tragedy that seems to mirror true life tragedies of exploration.
This episode showcases the genius of Palin and Jones, in that they're able to successfully balance pathos and humour, giving the viewer a subtlety, richness, and depth that sadly cannot be matched by later competent British comedies like Black Adder or The Young Ones.
One big problem I have with Ripping Yarns - it should be on DVD. It's criminal that neither this show nor John Cleese's Fawlty Towers are available on DVD. Hopefully someone will put that right soon!
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