Documentary on comedian, song and sketch-writer, and rural-Suffolk resident, Neil Innes.
Genre:
Arts; Biography; Documentary; Television
Profile of one-time “Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band" member, Suffolk resident, Neil Innes, introduced and narrated by arts journalist, Sheridan Morley. Footage of the comedian in his home recording studio, performing one of his creations, ‘The Rutles’ comic song ‘Hey Mister!’, with close-ups of his many guitars and a wall poster of an album cover featuring Innes. Followed by Innes repairing a mannequin stage prop in his workshop; in conversation with wife Yvonne; an exterior shot of the family’s 16th century farmhouse, and family activity in the lane leading from the rurally-located property; before finally enjoying a family home-cooked meal together.
Commentary details the author’s life and work; focusing on his comic alias’ and songwriting credentials, most famously as a member of the ‘Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band’; his broadcasting credits, BBC’s ‘Rutland Weekend Television’ and the ‘Innes Book of Records’; his East Anglian roots – Essex born, and Norwich School for the Arts educated; involvement in peace activism; collaborative work with Monty Python; and family life in rural-Suffolk, emphasizing the comic song and sketch writer’s eccentric and unassuming persona.
Footage of various publicity stills featuring Innes and the Bonzo Dog Doo-Day Band, with close-up shots of each of the band members; accompanied by music, ‘Jollity Farm’, written and performed by The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.
Notes:
Featured Music: “Sheridan Morley meets…” signature music; A recording of ‘Jollity Farm’, written and performed by The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band; Neil Innes performs one of his creations, ‘The Rutles’ comic song ‘Hey Mister!’.
Featured People:
Neil Innes, wife Yvonne, and their two [unnamed] children.
Featured Buildings:
Neil Innes’ rural-Suffolk home, a 16th century farmhouse, in Debenham.