Life of Brian
The Monty Python troupe is something of a British institution, a seismic satirical force that has survived strong over the last four decades thanks to both their Flying Circus TV programme, and a number of superb films, the best of which is unquestionably Life of Brian, a riotous religious satire that remains the most controversial work from the Python gang. The film opened an important and interesting dialogue upon its release over whether or not it was, in fact, blasphemous, resulting in it being entirely or
de facto banned in 39 British local authorities, while infamous conservative campaigner Mary Whitehouse campaigned against the film's depiction of the New Testament, while ironically only boosting its profile. Even over thirty years after the film's release, the debate continues to rage over whether Life of Brian is, indeed, blasphemous, with the surviving Python members even arguing about whether it is. What's important is that, regardless of its apparent blasphemy, it's one of the funniest, most intelligent British films ever made, and becomes even more iconic through its refreshing keenness to provoke. Is Life of Brian blasphemy? Decide for yourselves...