Python's Crowning Moment

Rating: 10/10 (6 July 2000)

It is a shame to see this masterpiece currently lower in the IMDB ratings than 'The Holy Grail'. Whilst The Holy Grail is a classic of manic and 'silly' fun, The Life of Brian is, on the whole, more thoughtful and inspired.
LOB represents the final blooming of the Python's creative talent. The film is not only hilarious in itself, it also takes a subtle(ish) swipe at organised religion as a whole. For example, the crowd breaking up into smaller factions and arguing over how to worship 'the messiah' only moments after hailing him.
Also the film appears to take a broadside at nationalist hatred, with the classic 'What have the Romans ever done for us?' scene. Is it coincidence that the Judaian People's Front all speak with Welsh accents??
This film perhaps carries more classic comedy moments than any other film ever:
*POTENTIAL SPOILERS (but they probably only mean something to those that have already seen the film)* 'No-one's to begin stoning...not even...if they do say Jehovah'; 'Romans, they go to the house? (a superb sketch on Latin lessons); 'Apart from the irrigation, the aqueduct...what have the Romans ever done for us?'; 'He's not the messiah, he's a very naughty boy' and the ultimate scene 'Does anyone else find is risible...when I mention my friend Bigus...?'.There are so many more classic scenes. *END OF POTENTIAL SPOILERS*
Even if you don't like Monty Python, this film is worth watching, its a natural progression from the classic humour they were doing in the early 70's. Not necessarily better, but different.
Holy Grail in its craziness may appear to represent English humour to an international audience, but then, so did Benny Hill (groan). However, it is Life of Brian that truly shows English comedy at its very best!