A Liar’s Autobiography is a truly surreal take on the late Graham Chapman’s life. Taken from the audio recording of his book A Liars Autobiography, Chapman narrates his life, charting it through the inevitable ups and downs through a rich 3D journey. This unusual take on the documentary style sees animation, 3D, and Chapman’s wit combine to create a unique film with a comedic edge.
The fourteen different animation studios that worked on the film each bring a different style that accentuates the different sides of Chapman. The 3D works well throughout, not distracting from the story but adding depth to the animation.
A particularly delightful scene is the Python gang shown as monkeys in a safari park. This inventive use of animation and Chapman’s narration brings the tale to life. Other particularly memorable scenes include Chapman having tea with the Queen Mother, his debauched exploits in a US hotel, and, of course, the time he was whisked up to space by aliens. His own personal demons, such as his troubles with alcoholism, are alluded to throughout the film, but never in a fully serious way. What shines through is Chapman’s ability to see the lighter side of everything.
The archive footage that is used, including a poignant clip from Chapman’s funeral, allow a first hand look at some of the comedy he is best known for. These clips are integrated with the animations well and without them the film would definitely feel as if it was lacking something. A great voice cast appear throughout including most of the Monty Python members, Cameron Diaz, and also Stephen Fry.
A Liar’s Autobiography is an inventive and mesmerising look at Chapman’s own charting of his life and does reveal some truth about his experience, however it is also possible to see it digress into twisted tales and vibrant animation. It is great to see the involvement from the other members of Monty Python, however Eric Idle is noticeably absent.
This insightful yet surreal film captures what Chapman thought of himself and others, and the use of Chapman’s own voice brings a heartfelt tone to the film. He would have been pleased with this raunchy yet loving and creative interpretation of his life and legacy.
Written by Nicola Lampard
