Philm Series | Monty Python's Life of Brian | 1979
Details
Life of Brian is one of Monty Python’s most famous films; lauded as one of the funniest comedies of all time.
The film was mired in controversy, due to its depictions of a fictional Messiah called Brian. Religious groups protested and accused the group of blasphemy. Numerous local councils in England banned the film.
The end of the movie contains one of the most controversial scenes in which Brian is crucified. Christian protesters said the film mocked Jesus’ suffering by making the scene into a “Jolly Boys Outing”. The Director Terry Jones clapped back that “Any religion that makes a form of torture into an icon that they worship, seems to me a pretty sick sort of religion”.
From a philosophical point of view the film sparks debate about many things:
- Freedom of expression and if there should be limits to criticism of religion.
- The philosophy of humour and what make something (un)funny.
- It explores some of the themes of recent meetups - undemocratic governments, but with an opposition that is fractured and ineffective.
- The psychological need for people to pin their hopes on a saviour, instead of acting to ‘save’ themselves.
Watch the full movie here (thanks Ed for finding the link): https://odysee.com/@FlowerPower3:a/Monty-Pythons---Life-of-Brian:8
Watch a BBC debate about the film from 1979: The Great LIFE OF BRIAN DEBATE | Friday Night Saturday Morning | BBC Archive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUYhtJINiaY
Additional links:
- https://www.thevintagenews.com/2016/03/14/when-people-accused-life-of-brian-of-blasphemy-monty-python-came-out-fighting/
- https://www.bbc.co.uk/videos/cyxe9180z84o
- https://www.goldradio.com/news/tv-film/george-harrison-monty-python-life-of-brian/
- https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/tunisian-filming-locations-monty-python-film-life-of-brian/
This meetup will not be recorded.