The Second Best of the Python Films

Rating: 7/10 (22 May 2008)

Monty Python's "Life of Brian" tells the story of Brian, a young Jew born in a manger just a few doors down from Jesus. Brian's life runs parallel with Jesus' as he becomes indoctrinated into the anti-Roman People's Front of Judea and is eventually mistaken for a prophet. How will Brian accept his new fame and popularity?
What always confused me about "Life of Brian" is the film's alleged mass appeal. Apparently, it is considered the funniest British film of all time, or at least one of them. Yet, Monty Python's "Holy Grail" is the one that received deluxe treatment, has a musical developed from it and is most often quoted by other people. Maybe Americans find "Grail" funny and Brits like "Brian". I don't know. But what I do know is that although I think "Brian" is funny, it's not even in my top twenty for comedies.
Graham Chapman shines as Brian Cohen, of course. He was clearly the leader of the Pythons, at least on screen, and rightfully so. He may not have the name John Cleese does or the directing chops Terry Jones or Terry Gilliam do, but he could command a screen. He will be missed.
The film is most funny for those who feel a sense of anti-authority in their blood. You can't take the story of Jesus too seriously or this account will offend you. Imperial nations are a target here, as are blind followers of religion. Even the modern Israel-Lebanon-Palestine conflict comes into play, although in a different form than we know it now.
Not unlike past work, the best jokes come from over-analyzing situations and words. In "Grail" we had Dennis explain the anarcho-syndicalist commune. Here, we get an extensive Latin lesson (Romani Ite Dormum). Great material by anyone's standards.
In my opinion, "Holy Grail" is the better film and even "Meaning of Life" probably has more humorous parts. Not that "Life of Brian" isn't funny... but I would suggest that only those who enjoyed these other two really give it a try. It's something of an acquired taste, as all British comedy is.