Of Pirates and Poignancy

Every time it comes around on BBC7, I try to give Treasure Island a listen. But I am coming to the realization that, having been introduced to the story through Muppet Treasure Island, I am forever spoiled. It moves along at a good clip but doesn't feel rushed! All the characters are appealing in some way and have interesting dynamics with each other! It's hopelessly silly but at the same time contains unexpected emotional depth that rings true!* There are songs! And his finger hired the crew!

In further news of unexpected poignancy in the midst of absurd comedy, this week's episode of The Brothers Faversham does a masterful turn at its end. Curse you British comedy, how do you manage to ambush the audience with moments of genuine feeling and make it not feel completely fake? Hooowww?? [fistshake]

It doesn't go any way towards answering the question, but Terry Jones' documentary on Theatre of the Absurd (with bonus commentary on its influence on the Pythons) is very interesting and perhaps slightly related.

*I maintain Muppet Treasure Island, for all its wackiness, has a deeper and more poignant relationship between Jim and Long John than Treasure Planet ever did, despite the latter obsessing over it for the entire span of the movie. Once I crack how they did that the world of story will be the mollusc of my choice ...