This rare film is now available on a Brazilian DVD, which the earlier comments here convinced me was worth getting. I've just watched it, and it is a joy! The earlier commentators are right on the mark in their comparisons to "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," in that it is an episodic, stylishly-realized, broad medieval comedy concerning a motley group of protagonists on a quest. Unlike the Monty Python film, however, this one never deviates from the story line and the actors never break character. It is also not quite as fully anarchic as the Python film. There is, in fact, a very touching death scene near the end of the film. Superbly paced, it seemed to me that there were no weak spots or comedic lulls. The poorly-translated English subtitles on my DVD were often very funny in their own right (unintentionally, I'm sure). But even though I don't understand Italian and missed some of the linguistic humor mentioned here, I still got a great deal of enjoyment out of it. The look of the film is fascinating, particularly some scenes in which the costuming, makeup, and set design evoke Fellini at his weirdest. Also, the use of the spectacular Italian countryside and old villages is outstanding. It's a privilege to have discovered this rare film, and I am thankful to the earlier commentators for helping bring it to my attention. That's one of the great advantages of visiting the IMDb.
Review of L'armata Brancaleone
