How Terry Gilliam Made the Animations for Monty Python

Ever wondered how Terry Gilliam created the hilarious animated interstitials for Monty Python's Flying Circus? Well, wonder no longer:

My takeaways:

• The primary method is cut-out animation. Not unlike the early days of South Park.
• He got his images from magazines, historical sources, books, and some elements which were custom shot.
• Most elements require at least two pieces, one with just the moving element, and one with the moving element seamlessly painted out of the background.
• Embrace the limitations of the medium: motions should be quick, don't select elements that will force you do do a bunch of complex animation (wheels are better than legs).
• Photographs lend a dimensionality to what would otherwise be an incredibly flat medium.
• You can recolor BW photos using felt-tip pens.
• Use a loop of tape to pin down pieces.
• Use a piece of glass to flatten out the pieces and minimize shadows. Try to light from directly above using 2 lights. The higher the light the better (to mimimize shadows).
• Have fun!