Fawlty Towers

Everyone knows of John Cleese but most know him from the infamous Monty Python. However, from 1975-1979 he led an exceptional cast in the brilliant British comedy Fawlty Towers. The TV series consists of two seasons both with six episodes each. In this short time, the show managed to be nominated for six awards in both the Broadcasting Press Guild Award in 1976 and the BAFTA's in 1976 and 1980 in which it won four of the six. The show follows the chaos and troubles at Basil Fawlty's hotel. Basil is absolutely not cut out for the hotel industry, he is rude and intolerant but it is this what makes the show utterly hilarious. Other characters include Sybil Fawlty (Basil's wife), Polly Sherman (House Keeper) and Manuel (Spanish Waiter). Their on screen chemistry is amazing, and definitely makes the show. 

The humour is simple and not crude which makes it more appealing to audiences. Much of the humour involves the miscommunication and sheer stupidity of the characters. Manuel, the Spanish waiter, is the easy target and is often the butt of the jokes. However, my favourite episode is the last episode in season 1 'The Germans'. Here, John Cleese's acting is brilliant once again, as he attempts to entertain a group of Germans that stay at the hotel while Sybil is hospital. A key line throughout the episode is "Don't mention the war" and this ultimately drives the plot. 

Fawlty Towers is an old time classic. If you love John Cleese, I would recommend watching this show. I have no doubt that you will be laughing as much as I did. 

-Rachael-